Feeding Chickens Potato Bug Larvae

[calendula]

Is it okay to feed chickens potato beetle larvae? We've been picking them off the potatoes, and I asked hubby if he was going to give the to the chickens. He said he didn't want to because they eat the leaves of the plant, which are toxic, and so he doesn't want to feed them to the chickens. Will it harm them?

 

[hoodat]

I doubt it but the chickens will know for sure. Animals have keen senses that can detect harmful or toxic food. If they are poison I'm betting theywill refuse them.

 

[calendula]

hoodat, you were absolutely correct. I gave them one, just to see what they'd do, and they turned their noses up at it! So, I made a garlic pesticide, and added the larvae to it in the blender. We sprayed the potatoes this weekend with it, so we'll see how it goes.