https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579126000544 This is a study on black fly larvae and their effect on Salmonella in chickens. From what I've read, it indicates that, while the effect of living black fly larvae to suppress the presence of Salmonella in chickens is known, there seems to be evidence that the same effect extends to *dried* larvae. So, those of us who don't yet raise our own larvae, or who do so seasonally, can reap the benefits of feeding them to our flock dried for long-term storage.
Anything that makes it easier not to develop horrible infections is a good thing!
I hope y'all are as excited about the possibilities as I am!
There is nothing so bad that politics cannot make it worse. - Thomas Sowell
Everything that is really great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labor in freedom. - Albert Einstein
I was already excited by the idea of the fly larvae being a source for both high protein and calcium, but now there might be some medical value? I'm hoping we see more information come out with more research.
For the folks who do feed the larvae, how much do they feed? At first glance, I would consider it a treat?
Yeah, I think it's mostly used as a treat, but I have seen some homemade feed "recipes" that call for certain amounts. I'm not sure how good it is as a major source of protein.
It's nice to know that roadkill/compost gone wrong could help create something that helps with calcium, protein levels, as well as possible other things.
There is nothing so bad that politics cannot make it worse. - Thomas Sowell
Everything that is really great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labor in freedom. - Albert Einstein
I've read good news about these larvae for years, but I'm just a bit too far north for growing them. It would take a greenhouse and extra lights, which is still just a dream.
That said, I know if I had a cheap easy source of live ones, my chickens would be thrilled!
I made a bin, It was easy, it worked, and I just couldn't do it. Adding scraps which you have to do very often, is disgusting. I tried to turn my mind off, not think about it. I just couldn't do it. It's a bummer I'm so squeamish, I really wanted to eliminate buying bsf. My hat is off to all you who can do it.
“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.” — Abraham Lincoln
Cob is sand, clay and sometimes straw. This tiny ad is made of cob:
montana community seeking 20 people who are gardeners or want to be gardeners