Can turkeys eat cicadas? Cicadas can be a nuisance, but they can also be a tasty treat for turkeys. Turkeys love to eat cicadas, and there are many benefits to feeding them cicadas.
Cicadas are high in protein and other nutrients and are a great source of calcium. However, there are some things to watch out for when feeding turkeys cicadas.
This article will go over the benefits of feeding turkeys cicadas and things to watch out for when doing so.
What are cicadas?
Cicadas are a type of insect that is closely related to leafhoppers and aphids. They are distinguished by their long, narrow bodies and transparent wings. Cicadas are found in temperate regions worldwide, and they typically live in trees or shrubs.
Cicadas emerge from the ground in massive numbers every 13 or 17 years, depending on the species. They mate and lay eggs and then die within a few weeks. The eggs hatch into nymphs, which drop to the ground and burrow into the soil, feeding on plant roots for several years.
When they mature, the nymphs tunnel to the surface and climb onto a tree or shrub. There, they shed their skin one last time and develop into adults. After a few weeks of feeding on plant sap, they mate and begin the cycle anew.
Cicadas are an amazing example of survival of the fittest; despite their short lifespans, they have been around for millions of years.
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Can turkeys eat cicadas?
The answer may surprise you, but the answer is yes! Turkeys are omnivores, meaning they can eat plants and animals. Turkeys will often eat just about anything they come across, including insects.
Cicadas are a particularly favored treat, as they are high in protein and fat. In addition, cicadas are relatively easy to catch, as they often sit on tree branches in the open.
As a result, it’s not uncommon to see turkeys gobbling up cicadas by the dozen. So, if you’re ever wondering what to feed your turkey, consider giving them some cicadas – they’ll surely enjoy them!
The benefits of eating cicadas for turkeys
While most people consider cicadas a nuisance, these insects can provide a valuable food source for turkeys.
High in protein
Cicadas are high in protein, making them an ideal part of a turkey’s diet. A single cicada can provide a turkey with up to 13% of its daily protein needs.
This is especially important for young turkeys, as they must consume a high-protein diet to develop properly.
Source of fat
Cicadas are also a good source of fat. This is important for turkeys, as fat is essential for their plumage and reproduction.
Good source of calcium
Cicadas are also a good source of calcium. This is important for turkeys, as calcium helps keep their bones healthy and strong.
Promotes good beak health
In addition, the hard shells of cicadas help wear down a turkey’s beak, keeping it sharp and healthy.
While cicadas are not the only type of food turkeys eat, they can play an important role in maintaining a healthy flock. As a result, next time you see a swarm of cicadas, don’t reach for the bug spray; let the turkeys enjoy their feast.
Things to watch out for when feeding turkeys cicadas
There are a few things to remember when feeding cicadas to turkeys.
Wait until 4 weeks old
Cicadas should only be fed to turkeys that are at least four weeks old. Younger turkeys may not have the digestive capacity to digest these insects properly.
Feed in moderation
Cicadas should only be fed in moderation. These insects can be quite rich, and feeding too many to turkeys can lead to digestive problems.
As a general rule of thumb, cicadas should make up no more than 10% of a turkey’s diet.
Keep these considerations in mind, and cicadas can be a healthy and nutritious food source for your turkey flock.
How to give your turkey a healthy and balanced diet
A turkey’s diet should consist of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and a good source of protein. Protein helps the turkey grow and maintain muscle mass, which is also an important part of the bird’s diet.
Fresh fruits and vegetables provide the turkey with vitamins and minerals essential for good health. Turkeys also need a good source of water to stay hydrated. Water helps the turkey digest its food properly and regulate its body temperature.
By giving your turkey a healthy and balanced diet, you can help ensure that it stays healthy and happy.
What other bugs can turkeys eat?
In addition to cicadas, turkeys can eat other insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets, and worms.
Turkeys are not only skilled at finding and eating the insects that damage crops, but they will also consume other harmful bugs, including ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. A single turkey can eat as many as 500 ticks daily.
By doing so, turkeys help to protect both humans and animals from diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Furthermore, turkeys provide a valuable service to farmers by consuming crop-damaging insects like armyworms, cutworms, and grubs.
As a result, these hardworking birds play an important role in human and animal health and agriculture.
Read More: Do Turkeys Eat Meat? 3 Awesome Benefits
Can turkey poults eat cicadas?
Turkey poults (young turkeys) can eat cicadas. However, they should only be given a small number of these insects as part of a varied and balanced diet.
Cicadas are high in protein and other nutrients, which can benefit turkey poults. However, they can also be a choking hazard, so it is important to monitor your poults when eating them.
It’s a good idea not to give turkey poults cicadas until they are 4 weeks old. This will give them time to develop the digestive system they need to digest these insects properly.
Can turkeys eat cicadas – final thoughts
While cicadas can be a nuisance, they can also be a healthy and nutritious treat for turkeys. Turkeys love to eat cicadas, and there are many benefits to feeding them cicadas.
Cicadas are high in protein and other nutrients and are a great source of calcium. However, there are some things to watch out for when feeding turkeys cicadas.
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