Yes, several animals eat marigolds. Deer, rabbits, and groundhogs are known to browse on marigold plants, including the flowers and foliage. While some sources suggest marigolds deter pests, these herbivores often consume them, especially when other food sources are scarce.
Yes, chickens can safely eat marigold petals in moderation. In fact, feeding marigolds to chickens is sometimes done to enhance the color of their egg yolks, making them a deeper orange. The petals contain carotenoids, which are responsible for this effect. It's a natural way to boost yolk color, and chickens generally enjoy pecking at the bright flowers as a treat.