Are Calci Worms good for chickens?

Calci worms are a natural, nutritious treat for chickens, and when fed correctly, they can support both hen health and natural behaviour.

In short: yes — calci worms are good for chickens when fed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What are calci worms?

Calci worms are the larvae of the black soldier fly. In the wild, chickens naturally forage for insects like these, making them a natural addition to their diet.

They are commonly used as a treat rather than a complete feed.

Nutritional benefits of calci worms

Calci worms are particularly valued for their calcium content, but they offer several benefits:

- Naturally high in calcium, supporting strong eggshells
- A good source of protein for overall health
- Encourage natural foraging behaviour
- Add variety and enrichment to feeding

This makes them a simple way to support your hens beyond standard feed.

Do calci worms replace regular feed?

No — calci worms should not replace your hens’ regular feed.

They are best used as a **supplement or treat**, alongside:

- a balanced layer feed
- fresh water
- access to grit where needed

Think of them as an addition, not a replacement.

How much should you feed?

A simple guideline is:

- around 10g per hen, per day

This keeps feeding consistent without overdoing it.

That means:

- 1 hen = 70g per week
- 3 hens = 210g per week
- 5 hens = 350g per week

Keeping to this level ensures your hens benefit without disrupting their overall diet.

Why chickens enjoy calci worms

Beyond nutrition, calci worms tap into natural behaviour.

Chickens are omnivores and instinctively scratch and forage for insects. Offering calci worms:

- keeps hens active
- reduces boredom
- supports natural instincts
- makes feeding more enjoyable

For many owners, this is just as important as the nutritional benefits.

A simple way to feed naturally

Calci worms offer a straightforward way to feed your hens in a way that feels more natural.

If you want a simple way to match feeding to your flock size, you can explore our Live Calci Worms packs, designed around weekly feeding amounts.