Lucerne (alfalfa) Pecking Blocks
Lucerne/ alfalfa pecking blocks
Lucerne or Alfalfa has been used as a supplement in commercial poultry diets for many years. It's usually in the form of a compacted pecking block or bale and added for enrichment during times of stress. It also brings a ton of nutritional benefits
Five reasons to love lucerne!
Fibre - Lucerne is high in fibre, which is often under estimated but is essential for gut health. Fibre helps to feed the good bacteria in the gut, and it's helpful in firming up loose faeces
Protein - There are reportedly 17 amino acids (building blocks of protein) contained within Lucerne. These include lysine and methionine, which are considered essential
Phenolics and flavenoid compounds are the hugely beneficial plant ingredients that help fight disease
Vitamins - contains A, D, E, C, K, plus B - which are beneficial for immune support and energy
Enrichment - hens love to work for food! Lucerne blocks are like a brick, and the birds need to do a bit of work to access the reward. If the blocks are suspended at the bird's head height, this can encourage more activity
Lucerne blocks have been proven to reduce feather pecking by providing a distraction
