October isn’t just for pumpkins, costumes, and candy—it’s also the perfect time to spoil your flock with some seasonal fun! Chickens love treats, and offering them the right ones is a great way to keep them happy, healthy, and entertained as the weather cools.

Not all human fall goodies are safe for chickens, though, so let’s dig into some flock-approved favorites.

Fall Favorites Your Chickens Will Love

🎃 Pumpkins

Pumpkins are a flock favorite! You can cut one open and let your hens peck at the flesh and seeds. Pumpkin seeds are a natural dewormer and packed with nutrients, making this treat both fun and functional.

🍎 Apples

Chickens love pecking at apples. Just make sure to remove the seeds, as they contain small amounts of cyanide. Slice them up or hang one whole in the run for a boredom-busting snack.

🌽 Corn (on or off the cob)

Corn is a warming treat for chilly fall days. Offer a cob for entertainment or scatter cracked corn in the bedding to encourage natural foraging.

🥬 Leafy Greens

Fresh kale, spinach, or cabbage can be hung in the coop for chickens to peck at throughout the day. It keeps them busy and adds a boost of vitamins.

🥕 Carrots & Squash

Grated carrots or chunks of cooked squash are tasty and rich in nutrients. These treats are especially good for adding variety to their diet.

Treats to Avoid

Just like Halloween candy isn’t great for kids’ teeth, some foods are harmful for chickens. Skip:

  • Chocolate

  • Avocado (especially the pit and skin)

  • Onions

  • Moldy or spoiled food

  • Anything heavily salted or sugary

Fun “Flock-tober” Treat Ideas

Want to make treat time extra festive this fall? Try these creative ideas:

  • Pumpkin Peck Bowl: Hollow out a pumpkin and fill it with scratch grains or mealworms.

  • Hanging Apple Bobbing: String up apples for your chickens to peck and chase.

  • Cabbage Pinata: Hang a head of cabbage in the run for hours of pecking fun.

These activities not only provide nutrition but also help reduce boredom when your flock spends more time in the coop during cooler months.

A Seasonal Boost for Happy Hens

Treats are a great way to bond with your flock and add variety to their diet but remember—they should make up no more than 10% of your chickens’ daily food intake. The bulk of their nutrition should still come from a balanced layer feed.

So, this October, celebrate Flock-tober by treating your hens to safe, healthy fall goodies. You’ll enjoy watching them peck, play, and feast—and your flock will thank you with strong eggs and happy clucks.