Common Plants Poisonous to Chickens

Common Plants Poisonous to Chickens

Free-ranging hens love to explore, scratch and peck at anything green — but not all plants are safe for them to eat. Some common garden plants are poisonous to chickens, and while many birds will instinctively avoid harmful foliage, others are less discerning or may sample a plant before realising it’s toxic.

Knowing which plants pose a risk can help you create a safer garden and prevent potential health issues. Below is a detailed list of plants known to be poisonous to chickens, along with advice on what to do if one of your birds becomes unwell.

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Why plant toxicity is a concern

Most toxic plants won’t be deadly in tiny amounts, and many chickens will be put off by bitter or unpleasant tastes. However, curious or hungry hens might eat enough to cause illness — or worse. Young birds, bored flocks, or chickens with limited forage may be more likely to peck at plants they shouldn’t.

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Toxic garden plants to keep away from chickens

Here’s a list of plants commonly found in UK gardens that are known to be harmful if ingested by chickens. Some affect the heart, others the nervous system or digestive tract.

🌿 Ornamentals and shrubs

• Foxglove (Digitalis) – Affects the heart
• Lily of the Valley – Cardiac glycosides
• Rhododendron – Causes drooling, vomiting, paralysis
• Hydrangea – Contains cyanogenic glycosides
• Azalea – Related to rhododendron, also toxic
• Laburnum – Seeds especially toxic
• Ivy (Hedera helix) – Causes digestive upset
• Tulip and Hyacinth bulbs – Gastrointestinal irritation

🌿 Wild or invasive plants

• Bracken fern – Carcinogenic, causes vitamin B1 deficiency
• Hemlock – Extremely toxic, affects the nervous system
• Water hemlock – Among the most toxic plants in Europe
• Deadly nightshade (Belladonna) – Affects the nervous system
• St. John’s Wort – Photosensitisation and digestive issues
• Bryony – Toxic root and berries
• Ground ivy – Causes vomiting and diarrhoea

🌿 Trees and larger plants

• Yew (Taxus baccata) – Highly toxic, especially the needles
• Horse chestnut (conkers) – Contains aesculin
• Oak (acorns) – Tannins cause kidney and digestive issues
• Elderberry (unripe berries/leaves) – Contains cyanogenic compounds

🌿 Vegetable garden culprits

• Potato leaves and green skins – Solanine toxicity
• Tomato leaves and stems – Also contain solanine
• Rhubarb leaves – High in oxalates, highly toxic

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Dangerous waterborne plants and algae

Chickens can also be poisoned by contaminated water sources. One of the biggest dangers is blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), which can bloom in ponds, pools and even old buckets of standing water during warm weather.

Symptoms of algae poisoning can appear quickly and may include:

• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Seizures
• Sudden death

To stay safe:

• Block access to ponds, water features or stagnant water
• Clean all drinkers regularly, especially in summer
• Change water daily and use shaded areas to slow algae growth

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What to do if you think your chicken has been poisoned

If you notice symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, twitching or unsteadiness — and you suspect a plant could be the cause — contact your vet immediately. Speed is crucial.

Take the following steps:

1. Remove the source – Stop the bird from eating more
2. Identify the plant – Bring a sample or take a photo to show the vet
3. Give context – Mention any recent treatments, sprays, or feed changes
4. Collect evidence – If possible, bring a sample of the chicken’s feed or water
5. If the bird dies – Refrigerate (not freeze) the body and get it to the vet quickly

Your vet may run toxicology tests or begin treatment based on symptoms and exposure history.

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Final thoughts

While chickens are generally good at avoiding harmful plants, it’s safer to remove toxic species from any area where your flock roams. This is especially important for young or hungry hens that may peck first and regret it later.

Make sure garden plants, compost, and wild areas your chickens access are checked regularly. Prevent access to standing water, especially in summer, and give your birds plenty of safe forage, grit and nutrition to reduce the temptation to try anything risky.

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Disclaimer

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary or medical advice. If you suspect your chicken has ingested a poisonous plant, always contact a qualified poultry vet as soon as possible.