Insects in the diet of wild animals – reconnection with nature

The natural diet of wild animals

Wild animals such as wild boar (Sus scrofa) and birds have always depended on the availability of natural food sources. Studies conducted in Europe show that the diet of wild boar consists mainly of plant matter (86–96% by volume), but insects and other small invertebrates form a significant part of their diet, especially in seasons when other energy sources are scarce.

In nature, insects such as beetle larvae and ants are readily available and rich sources of protein. Studies carried out in the French Alps found that wild boar consume large amounts of earthworms during periods of peak availability, which is particularly evident in mountainous areas where other food sources may be limited.

Birds of prey and poultry – insects on the menu

Birds such as turkeys and other ground-foraging species also actively search for insects in the soil. This behaviour is not only a manifestation of survival instinct, but also proof of their natural predisposition to use insects as a source of nutrients. Modern studies indicate that the diet of ground-foraging birds in the wild can include up to 10% insects, depending on the season and food availability. This behaviour is particularly evident in chickens, which, when free-ranging, spend a large part of their time scratching and searching for larvae.

Scientific conclusions and farming applications

Analyses show that introducing larvae into the diet of farm animals such as pigs and poultry reflects their natural feeding behaviour. Studies on wild boar populations in Europe indicate that, despite the diversity of their diet, insects remain a constant element of their menu, especially during periods of scarcity of other available food. Wild turkey populations, particularly in the early stages of life, consume up to 70% insects. Incorporating larvae into the diet of farm animals not only supports their natural instincts but, above all, provides well-balanced functional components that support health, welfare and improve production performance.

Reconnection with nature with HiProMine

At HiProMine we rely on science. Umami Boost, our functional feed component based on Hermetia illucens larvae, perfectly reflects the natural diet of wild animals while delivering valuable nutrients in a sustainable way. Thanks to advanced production technology, we offer solutions that on the one hand represent innovation, broadly supporting the feed production process and a balanced diet, and on the other are, for farm animals, a reconnection with nature.

Źródła

1. Schley, L., & Roper, T. J. (2003). Diet of wild boar Sus scrofa in Western Europe. Mammal Review, 33(1), 43-56.
2. Herrero, J., García-Serrano, A., Couto, S., Ortuño, V. M., & García-González, R. (2006). Diet of wild boar Sus scrofa L. and crop damage in an intensive agroecosystem. European Journal of Wildlife Research, 52(4), 245-250.
3. Baubet, E., Bonenfant, C., & Brandt, S. (2004). Diet of the wild boar in the French Alps. Galemys, 16, 101-113.
4. Zeman, J., Hrbek, J., Drimaj, J., Kudláček, T., & Heroldová, M. (2018). Habitat and management influence on a seasonal diet composition of wild boar. Biologia, 73(2), 151-158.
5. Liu, N., Ma, X., & Jiang, X. (2022). Effects of immobilized antimicrobial peptides on growth performance, serum biochemical index, inflammatory factors, intestinal morphology, and microbial community in weaning pigs. Frontiers in Immunology, 13, 872990.