Enriching the Coop: Why Chickens & Ducks Need Entertainment & the Best Toy Ideas for them.

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Introduction

When we think of providing entertainment for pets, chickens and ducks might not be the first animals that come to mind. However, just like any other domesticated animal, these feathered friends benefit greatly from mental and physical stimulation. Keeping them entertained not only improves their overall well-being but also enhances their behavior and reduces stress. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of providing entertainment for chickens and ducks and offer some of the best toy ideas to keep them happy and engaged.

Why Do Chickens and Ducks Need Entertainment?

1. Mental Stimulation: Chickens and ducks are curious creatures that love to explore and learn. Boredom can lead to stress and undesirable behaviors. Providing entertainment keeps their minds active and engaged, preventing boredom-related issues.

2. Physical Exercise: Some chicken and duck breeds can be prone to obesity if they lack opportunities for physical activity. Toys that encourage movement and play can help them stay fit and healthy.

3. Social Interaction: Chickens and ducks are social animals that thrive in the company of their flock. Interactive toys can promote bonding and reduce aggression within the group.

4. Diversion from Pecking: In confined spaces, chickens can develop a habit of pecking at each other out of boredom or stress. Toys can redirect their attention, reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior.

The Best Toy Ideas for Chickens and Ducks

1. Pecking Blocks: Hang pecking blocks filled with grains or seeds for chickens to peck at. This not only keeps them entertained but also provides essential nutrients. https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Treats-Mealworm-Sunflower-5-5-Ounce/dp/B015G9Y1UO/ref=sr_1_14?keywords=chicken+pecking+block+organic&qid=1690144814&sr=8-14&_encoding=UTF8&tag=frecklesfarms-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=f7389fd7734998dceac976276d47d9a7&camp=1789&creative=9325

2. Treat Balls: Fill treat balls with mealworms, vegetables, or grains, and let your chickens and ducks roll them around to get the treats. It's an excellent way to encourage foraging behavior.

https://www.amazon.com/Ware-Manufacturing-Peck-Play-Chicken/dp/B00IQ8JFPO/ref=sr_1_4?crid=P2J722YBO943&keywords=Treat+balls+for+chickens+and+ducks&qid=1690144954&sprefix=treat+balls+for+chickens+and+ducks%252Caps%252C137&sr=8-4&_encoding=UTF8&tag=frecklesfarms-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=bc71695ca7ee7d3a156ca6aabc922acd&camp=1789&creative=9325

3. Mirror Toys: Chickens are fascinated by their reflections. Place a large, unbreakable mirror in the coop, and watch them interact with their "new friend."

https://www.amazon.com/Pieces-Chicken-Xylophone-Grinding-Dangling/dp/B094ZC8Y76/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2Z14T7CA5VC8E&keywords=Chicken+mirror+toy&qid=1690145065&sprefix=chicken+mirror+toy%252Caps%252C141&sr=8-4&_encoding=UTF8&tag=frecklesfarms-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=a7284d8a4a434dd2fca4217ba3cfc136&camp=1789&creative=9325

4. Dust Bathing Area: Create a designated dust bathing area with fine sand or dirt for chickens. Dust bathing is a natural behavior for them and helps keep their feathers clean and free of pests.

https://www.amazon.com/Lixit-Chicken-Dust-Bath-5-5/dp/B00LV4S0AQ/ref=sr_1_9?crid=1EHT13ZLN82CV&keywords=fine%252Bsand%252Bfor%252Bchicken%252Bdust%252Bbath&qid=1690145166&sprefix=Fine%252Bsand%252Bfor%252Bchicke%252Caps%252C137&sr=8-9&th=1&_encoding=UTF8&tag=frecklesfarms-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=58c36373b1d110dc1ab102aca9d0d407&camp=1789&creative=9325

5. Swinging Perches: Install hanging perches or swings in the coop for ducks and chickens to perch and swing on. It's not only fun for them, but it also helps strengthen their leg muscles.

https://www.amazon.com/Vehomy-Chicken-Swing-Handmade-Parrot/dp/B07YYYFH64/ref=sr_1_7?crid=1GNIXOEC6ZANE&keywords=Swinging+chicken+perch&qid=1690145291&sprefix=swinging+chicken+perch%252Caps%252C142&sr=8-7&_encoding=UTF8&tag=frecklesfarms-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=3b56528dcdadfb8d5574ccf5dafaab72&camp=1789&creative=9325

6. Floating Toys: If you have a pond or pool for your ducks, add floating toys like rubber ducks or balls for them to interact with while swimming.

https://www.amazon.com/Dreidel-Company-Birthday-Projects-Classroom/dp/B089P23JKT/ref=sr_1_32_sspa?crid=288L6GJ2CA0W7&keywords=Floating+toys+for+ducks&qid=1690145571&s=pet-supplies&sprefix=floating+toys+for+ducks%252Cpets%252C145&sr=1-32-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9idGY&psc=1&_encoding=UTF8&tag=frecklesfarms-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=1aa86510cfacdfafc14ffa3150bc20a9&camp=1789&creative=9325

8. Cabbage Pinata: Hang a head of cabbage from the ceiling in the coop. Chickens and ducks will peck at it, and it provides a healthy and engaging treat. (Included in link #3)

9. Foraging Boxes: Create foraging boxes filled with straw or wood shavings and hide treats or mealworms inside. Chickens and ducks will enjoy scratching and digging to find the goodies.

https://www.amazon.com/FLYGRUBS-Chicken-Additive-Molting-Supplement/dp/B07FMDXGB2/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=1UO2W92122QZO&keywords=chicken+mealworms&qid=1690145759&s=pet-supplies&sprefix=chicken+mealworms%252Cpets%252C143&sr=1-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&_encoding=UTF8&tag=frecklesfarms-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=527e88ab8bbf9424aab3c091122d624e&camp=1789&creative=9325

Conclusion

Providing entertainment for chickens and ducks is an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership. Keeping them mentally and physically engaged leads to happier, healthier, and more contented birds. The best part is that you don't need elaborate or expensive toys to achieve this. Simple, DIY options can be just as effective in keeping your feathered friends entertained.

Remember to rotate toys regularly to prevent boredom, and always prioritize safety when selecting or creating toys for your chickens and ducks. By incorporating these toy ideas into their living spaces, you'll create a stimulating and enriching environment that fosters a fulfilling and joyful life for your beloved feathered companions. Happy clucking and quacking!