Veterinarians are often consulted about feeding exotic chicken species, which are kept not for breeding but for hobby. Diets for these birds should be based on poultry diets for backyard birds. Growing chickens should get a grower pellet and, after approximately 8–12 weeks, an adult maintenance pellet. Pellets for laying hens or broilers should not be fed unless egg or meat production is the goal for keeping exotic chickens. Only 10% of the diet should be made up of a mixture of grains, plus fruits and greens to prevent nutritional imbalance. Only when deficiencies are observed should specific vitamins and minerals be supplemented to the regular diet. Exotic chicken breeds should be fed twice a day to improve feeding behavior; spending more time collecting and eating food echoes their natural habits, Leftover food should be removed, especially at night, because it can attract pests.
