Can chickens eat peanuts?

[rew15]

I have a lot leftover from the winter and the bird feeders.
I was wondering if they'll be ok to give to the girls.

[Tomato]

I guess they would eat them

[Flummery]

Hmmm - I'm not sure I'd given them to mine.

[Nicos]

I've no idea to be honest- although I think I'd be worried about them choking.
They're also very rich and oily too.hmm... When in doubt eh???


Actually- now is a good time for the wild birds which will be starting to feed their chicks. I'd still hang them out for them!

[Hilary B]

There is a toxin that can occur in peanuts, not sure (actually no idea) whether it affects chooks......

[frias]

The robins are still eating the peanuts in the feeder. Not sure how good they are for chickens. I did give mine the remainder of some chopped almonds I had last year. Never really thought about whether they should have them or not.

[lainey lou]

deffo wouldn't give them to my girls.

[Two_Sheds]

Yes chickens can eat peanuts: I'd be wary of feeding them any that might be mouldy though.
Peacocks love peanuts, and what are they if not very big chickens?

[dogsbody]

My previous ones have eaten them, in fact they would fight over them. The toxin referred to above should be avoided if you buy from accredited sources (it's something like a falfalla toxin but don't quote me on that!).

My newest acquisitions are a bit too young for them (they haven't mastered the lettuce yet) raisens though are going down a treat.

[rew15]

Ok. thanks everyone. I think I'll give it a miss going on what's been said.

[Polly Fouracre]

I think that as long as the peanuts are clean and free from mould you can give them to your hens in small quantities as a special treat. I do with no ill effects.