I tried sand at first (just like what your picture shows) and it got VERY stinky fast! Shoveled it all out of the coop into the run and just put down a few bags of PDZ on the floor with the straw and pine chips on top and totally took care of the smell.
Sweet PDZ is amazing! I use it on the floor of my coop, then mix straw and pine chips on top. I'm sure it would work fine by itself (expensive) during the summer, but will not provide the warmth and insulation that the straw and pine provide.
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Hello - I looked over the website, and think they are probably on the up and up, i.e. NPIP certified etc. I am also impressed that both of them (father and son) have or are currently studying Poultry Science. I also like that they have formulated their own feeds that are sourced locally...
I suppose I should have been more clear. I am thinking of putting a layer of shavings on top of the PDZ, on purpose, not because the chickens accidentally kicked it on top of the PDZ. Still trying to decide if shavings on top is a good idea (other than extra insulation). Seems like more of a...
Yinepu - I had a good chuckle when I read your signature "I don't have poultry.... I have mini feathered velociraptors" Just the other day I was telling someone that my rooster makes a sound like a velociraptor and that's probably because chickens evolved from them. lol
I have 6 hens and a rooster. He does crow a lot, but not a problem where I live. Lots of large brown eggs! Friendly and real characters - love my peeps!
Oh, yeah - and mix in some DE in the coop as well. I get that the shavings add insulation in winter (I live in the mountains of western NC), and that would be the reason not to use just straight PDZ on the floor???
From reading this thread, I've come to the conclusion that I want to empty out all the river sand that I just put in the coop (it stinks already because it's damp). Put that sand into the run that also has the river sand in it. Outside the sand dries out - not so inside the coop. Then put...
old blue - What do you mean by LOTS? not sure I understand ....so these chickens will have no access to a run or free range? Not recommended - they need fresh air and sunshine. More sun, more eggs, too. That is a huge coop, but considering you won't be letting them out, I would say no more...