what is cracked corn

Cracked corn is simply dried corn kernels that have been crushed or cracked into smaller pieces. It is commonly made from maize, which is a variety of corn grown primarily for industrial processing and stockfeed. Cracking the corn kernels makes them easier for animals to eat and digest. Cracked corn is high in both protein and fiber and is an excellent supplemental food to offer backyard birds. Wild birds that eat cracked corn include doves, blackbirds, sparrows, juncos, and northern bobwhites. Squirrels, raccoons, deer, and opossums will also eat cracked corn. Cracked corn is an ingredient in many animal feeds and is often fed by itself to chickens or other home-raised fowl. However, it is important to note that cracked corn should not be the main source of nutrients for chickens, as it is relatively low in protein, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and other important vitamins and minerals. A laying hen needs a minimum of 16% protein in the diet for optimum productivity and health. Ultimately, a complete feed formulated for the appropriate species and age should be the main source of nutrients for birds.