While chickens can't "fennel" in the sense of performing an action called "fenneling," they can benefit from fennel as part of their environment and diet.
Here's a breakdown:
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Fennel in the Nesting Box: Adding dried fennel fronds to nesting boxes can help deter lice, mites, and other parasites. The strong scent of fennel acts as a natural repellent.
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Nutritional Benefits of Fennel: Fennel is an excellent source of vitamin C, phytonutrients, and antioxidants, all beneficial for chicken health. Some believe it supports reproductive health.
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Fennel as Food: Chickens can safely eat fennel, including the bulb, fronds, and seeds. However, like all treats, it should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
In short, chickens can benefit from having fennel in their nesting boxes to help deter parasites, and they can eat fennel as part of a balanced diet for its nutritional value.
