The Benefits of Black Soldier Fly Larvae for the Fall Molting Season
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As fall sets in, many chicken keepers notice that their birds are looking a little ragged and dull, perhaps egg production is not where it should be.
No worries, the chicken may be beginning to molt. Molting is the natural process where chickens shed old feathers and grow new ones commonly triggered by shorter days and cooler weather. While it’s completely normal, molting can be a stressful time for your flock. A smooth molt requires extra nutrition such as a 20-25 percent increase in protein, including amino acids, to help hens stay strong, regrow feathers, and keep their immune systems up. That’s where black soldier fly larvae come in as the ideal, nutrient-packed supplement for molting chickens!
Why Do Chickens Molt in the Fall?
Molting typically is triggered as daylight hours shorten in the fall. During this time, chickens need increased protein and other essential nutrients to grow strong, healthy feathers. Feathers are primarily made of keratin, a structural, fibrous protein that requires a high level of energy and source nutrition to grow. Since feather growth demands so much from a hen’s body, her egg production might decrease or even stop temporarily during this time. Most layers will resume about two weeks after a successful molt.
The Nutritional Power of Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Black soldier fly larvae are packed with a well-rounded combination of protein, amino acids, healthy fats, calcium, and other vital nutrients:
- High in Protein for Feather Regrowth: Black soldier fly larvae are made up of approximately 40% protein including amino acids, such as methionine and Lysine, which are all essential components for feather development. Supplementing additional Black Soldiers Fly Larvae to your birds’ diet during a molt supports the regrowth of feathers without pulling resources away from other body functions.
- Rich in Calcium for Bone Health: Chickens need calcium not only for eggshell formation but also for overall bone health, which is especially important during molting. Black soldier fly larvae naturally contain high levels of calcium, as well as potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium which all work together to keep your chickens’ bones strong while they regrow feathers.
- Healthy Fats for Energy: The cooler temperatures of fall mean that chickens need to keep warm. The healthy fats in black soldier fly larvae provide energy to keep their metabolism running smoothly, even as they regrow feathers and prepare for winter.
- Boosts Immune Health: As chickens go through the stress of molting, their immune systems can benefit from added support. Black Soldier Fly larvae are rich in essential amino acids and beneficial micronutrients that help keep your flock resilient during this challenging time.
How to Incorporate Black Soldier Fly Larvae into Your Flock’s Fall Diet
Black soldier fly larvae make for an easy, versatile addition to any diet. Here are some tips for introducing them to your flock:
- Mix with or Sprinkle on Top of Feed: Simply sprinkle dried larvae on top of your chickens' regular feed to give them a protein boost. Adding a 3 to 1 mix in addition to daily regimen should more than accommodate the suggested 25 percent increase in protein.
- Hand-Feed as Treats: If you enjoy interacting with your hens, hand-feeding larvae is a great way to bond and keep them coming back for more. Consider Black Soldier Fly larvae as a high value reward for training your feathered friend how to play bingo.
- Supplement During Free Range Time: Scatter the larvae on the ground to encourage natural foraging behavior. By providing a known quantity you can monitor intake a little better during the molt.
Conclusion
With just a handful of Black Soldier Fly larvae a day, you can help your chickens get the boost they need to stay healthy and comfortable while they are molting. Help your chickens get through molting season stronger and healthier. All Egg Brigade BSFL are American-grown. You can trust your Egg Brigade Soldier Fly Larvae possess the highest quality standards to maximize nutrient content for your birds anytime.