By nature, a chicken spends much of the day foraging, scratching and pecking. If that activity disappears, for example during a housing order or in a small run, the birds sometimes turn on each other. Peck blocks and chicken toys give that pecking behaviour an outlet. This collection contains the Lax peck block for laying hens, the Excellent layer block, the Savic Chicken Fun, the Hentastic Fun Feeder, the Kerbl treat ball and the Gaun chicken swing.
Which type of enrichment to choose?
| Type | What it does | Suitable as |
|---|---|---|
| Peck block | A pressed block from which chickens slowly peck off pieces | Long-lasting activity in coop or run |
| Hanging feeding toy | Holds vegetables or treats at pecking height | Variety, feed stays out of the mud |
| Treat ball | Releases feed when the chicken rolls it away | Short, active play on a level surface |
| Chicken swing | A moving perch | Extra lookout and balance exercise |
A combination often works best: a block that stays put, and a hanging toy or treat ball that you fill or move now and then. What is new attracts the most attention.
Placement in coop and run
Hang toys at your chickens' head or back height, not above the perch, because droppings fall there. Place a peck block in a dry spot, for example under the run's shelter; in the rain it becomes soft and crumbly. If you have a large flock, provide more than one spot, so the lower-ranking hens also get a turn. Mount a swing low enough that heavy breeds can easily jump onto it.
Points to note
A peck block for laying hens often contains nutrients or minerals itself; read the composition and count it as an extra alongside the main feed. Toys do not always solve feather pecking. If a chicken keeps pecking or going bald, also look at space, light, parasites and the make-up of the flock, and ask a vet for advice if needed.
More rewards are in mealworms and chicken treats; scratch feed is in mixed corn and the grit that goes with it in grit and oyster shell. The complete feed overview is under chicken feed and treats.
Frequently asked questions
Why do chickens need a peck block?
Not strictly necessary, but useful. It gives chickens something to do, especially when they cannot roam freely.
Do chicken toys help against feather pecking?
They can reduce boredom, an important cause of pecking. Space, parasites and flock make-up also play a part.
How long does a peck block last?
That depends on the number of chickens and whether it stays dry. Under a shelter, a block stays firm for longer.