Seasonal Care Tips for Backyard Chickens: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Share
Keep Your Flock Happy and Healthy Year-Round with Simple Steps and Picky Neb Treats
Raising backyard chickens is a joy, whether you’re collecting fresh eggs or just love watching your flock peck around the yard. But as the seasons change, so do your chickens’ needs. From freezing winters to scorching summers, a little planning can keep your hens healthy and happy all year long. At Picky Neb, we know nutrition plays a big role—our dried mealworms and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae are perfect treats to support your flock through every season. Here’s your simple guide to seasonal chicken care, packed with tips you can use right away.
Winter: Keeping Chickens Warm and Well-Fed
Winter can be tough on backyard chickens, but a cozy coop and the right diet make all the difference.
-
Insulate the Coop: Add extra bedding like straw or wood shavings to keep things warm. Avoid sealing it too tight—ventilation prevents moisture buildup.
-
Boost Nutrition: Cold weather means your chickens need more energy. Toss them some Picky Neb dried mealworms or BSF larvae—the high protein and fat content helps them stay warm and active. [Curious why these treats are so great? Check out our post on The Benefits of Feeding Mealworms and BSF Larvae to Your Chickens for the full scoop.]
-
Fresh Water: Check waterers daily to prevent freezing. A heated base can be a game-changer.
Pro Tip: Chickens slow down egg-laying in winter due to shorter days. A handful of mealworms can perk them up and keep them strong.
Spring: Preparing for Growth and Egg-Laying
Spring is a fresh start for your flock—time to clean up and get ready for those eggs!
-
Deep Clean the Coop: Sweep out winter debris and scrub with a mild vinegar solution. Fresh bedding keeps things comfy.
-
Power Up Egg Production: As daylight increases, so does laying. Add Picky Neb BSF larvae to their diet—the protein and calcium support strong eggshells and healthy hens.
-
Handle Muddy Runs: Rain can turn your chicken run into a mess. Lay down gravel or straw to keep their feet dry and clean.
Spring Bonus: Plant some chicken-safe herbs like parsley or oregano near the coop—they’ll love pecking at them.
Summer: Beating the Heat with Your Flock
Hot weather can stress chickens, but you can help them stay cool and happy.
-
Shade and Airflow: Set up a tarp or moveable shade over the run. Open coop windows (with secure screens) for ventilation.
-
Cool Treats: Mix Picky Neb dried mealworms into a chilled mash or scatter them in a shady spot. Chickens love the taste, and the protein keeps them strong despite the heat. [Want to keep your treats fresh in the heat? Read our guide on How to Store Dried Mealworms and Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Maximum Freshness.]
-
Watch for Heat Stress: Panting or droopy wings? Offer extra water with electrolytes and limit activity during peak sun hours.
Fun Idea: Freeze some mealworms in ice cubes for a refreshing chicken treat—they’ll peck at it all afternoon!
Fall: Transitioning Your Chickens with Ease
Fall brings cooler days and molting season—a big shift for your flock.
-
Support Molting: Losing feathers takes energy. Feed them Picky Neb dried mealworms or BSF larvae daily—the protein helps new feathers grow fast and shiny.
-
Prep the Coop: Sweep out summer dust and check for drafts. Add a layer of bedding to ease into cooler nights.
-
Adjust Feeding: Shorter days might mean less foraging. Keep their energy up with nutrient-packed treats.
Fall Reminder: Collect fallen leaves for compost—your chickens will enjoy scratching through it later.
Wrap-Up: Happy Chickens, Happy You
Every season brings new adventures with your backyard chickens, and a little care goes a long way. Whether it’s keeping them warm in winter, boosting eggs in spring, cooling them off in summer, or helping them molt in fall, small steps make a big difference. At Picky Neb, we’re proud to offer dried mealworms and BSF larvae to support your flock year-round—packed with protein and easy to store.
Shop Picky Neb to get started!
Try adding these treats to your routine and see the difference for yourself. Have your own seasonal tips? Share them with us in the comments or on social media—we’d love to hear from you!