What Are the Best Treats for Backyard Chickens?

The best treats for backyard chickens are high in protein, easy to feed and irresistible to the flock. The most universally loved chicken treat across Australia is the mealworm - live or dried, chickens of every breed go crazy for them. Other top performers include live crickets (great for foraging enrichment), Australian wood roaches (high-protein, slow-moving and easy for chickens to catch) and BSFL/Vitaworms (the calcium-rich option that supports eggshell quality).

Seasonal Chicken Treat Recommendations

  • Autumn (March–May): Moulting season - increase mealworms, dried crickets and BSFL for high protein. Your hens need it.
  • Winter (June–August): Cold-weather energy - live mealworms and scratch mixes with dried insects keep hens active and warm
  • Spring (September–November): Peak laying season - calcium grit and BSFL support strong shells and consistent production
  • Summer (December–February): Enrichment over calories - live insects in a foraging scatter keep the flock busy in the heat
  • Year-round: Dried mealworms are the easiest treat in any season - no storage issues, instant delivery

New Chicken Owner Essentials

If you're new to keeping chickens, starting with the right treats makes a big difference to flock behaviour, bonding and health. New keepers should have: dried mealworms (for training and bonding), live insect tubs (for enrichment), and a calcium supplement (for any laying hens). The Starter Products for Chickens collection has everything a new keeper needs in one place.

Faq

What is the best chicken treat to buy in Australia?

The most popular chicken treat in Australia is dried mealworms - high in protein, loved by every breed, convenient to store and easy to feed. Live mealworms are a close second for keepers who want maximum enrichment value. For laying hens specifically, BSFL (black soldier fly larvae / Vitaworms) is also excellent due to its natural calcium content. Nest Box Online's featured collection highlights the top-selling treats as chosen by Australian backyard chicken owners.

What is a good gift for a chicken owner?

The best gifts for chicken owners in Australia are: a variety pack of live or dried insect treats, a mealworm value pack, a Flowers & Insects Scratch Mix, or a Nest Box Online gift card. Chicken keepers are always in need of treats and frequently run out - a well-stocked treat gift solves a real problem. Nest Box Online gift cards are redeemable across the full range, including live insects, dried treats and supplements.

What should new chicken owners buy first?

New chicken owners should start with: (1) dried mealworms - for training, bonding and daily treats; (2) a small supply of live mealworms or live cricket tubs for flock enrichment; (3) shell grit or calcium aragonite for any laying hens; (4) a subscription option to automate regular treat deliveries. The Starter Products for Chickens collection has these essentials bundled for new keepers.

Didn't find your answer?

Feel free to reach out anytime to contact@nestboxonline.com.au.Text messages or calls are also welcome to Lisa at 0409 337 418.