Tag: Toxic

Common Outdoor Plants That are Generally Considered Toxic to Chickens

Rhubarb: The leaves of rhubarb contain toxic levels of oxalic acid, which can be harmful to chickens if ingested in large quantities.
Nightshade plants: Plants such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants belong to the nightshade family, which contain toxic compounds called solanines. These can be harmful to chickens if consumed in large amounts.
Lily of the valley: This plant contains toxins called cardiac glycosides, which can cause irregular heartbeats, vomiting, and other health issues in chickens.
Daffodils: Daffodil bulbs contain toxic compounds called alkaloids, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms in chickens.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These flowering plants contain toxins called grayanotoxins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness in chickens.
Oleander: This popular ornamental plant contains toxic compounds called cardiac glycosides, which can cause serious health issues in chickens if ingested.
Castor bean: The seeds of the castor bean plant contain a highly toxic compound called ricin, which can be fatal to chickens if ingested.
Bracken fern
Raw beans
Note: Chickens are generally smart and instinctive when it comes to avoiding toxic plants. However, it’s best to ensure that their environment is free of toxic plants, to prevent accidental ingestion.