Coops, chicken breeds and bedding?

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brad68der1

brad68der1

In the Brooder
Aug 28, 2015
23
3
31
West central PA. Very close to Punxytawney.
Hello all, new to the site not sure if I'm posting in the correct place but have a few ?'s.
#1. As far as wood shavings, what is the best, pine, cedar, or something else?
#2. We just got 6 Red Sex Link pullets that are aprix 20 weeks. Will they start laying soon?
#3. I built a small coop 4x8 floor, with nesting 3 boxes on both ends. The hens don't seem to want to be in the coop but rather out in the run. 2 have hollowed out depressions in the run and are squatting now. How do I get them to lay eggs in the coop?
Thanks for the add, and your answers.
 
welcome-byc.gif
So glad you have joined us.

#1 - Pine is recommended, avoid the Cedar-it is reported to cause health issues. Here's a link to an article on several other choices:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/bedding-part-1-comparing-materials

#2 - Expect eggs very soon - but they may already be laying in the run? Do they squat when you touch them? Are you hearing the egg laying songs?

#3 - Have you had any problem with reluctance to enter or roost in the coop? Posting a pic of their coop/run with interior photos may help with accurate opinions. The hollowed out areas are likely bathing areas. Try to get interest and attention to the nests - add fake eggs or golf balls - 1 in each. Make sure the nests are inviting = private, dim and not in direct sunlight.

Hope this helps, again Welcome to our membership.
You should also post under the "new members" forum to receive a proper welcoming.
 
Thanks! These is our first ever. I believe they may not like the new smell of wood or possibly the paint hasn't quite dried. No eggs as of 10am so will keep an eye out. I was able to get them in the coop last eve with few problems, the roosting bar I put in the coop seems to be a big hit. Thanks for your advice, I'll try some of your suggestions.
 
welcome-byc.gif


x2 for all that Sunflour said. Pine shavings are great, and aspen also works, though it's often more expensive. Steer clear of cedar.

My chickens are weird in that they spend more time in the coop than the run, but most chickens usually spend most of their time in the run. As long as your chickens come in to roost at night, don't worry about that. And as Sunflour said, the depressions are likely dust bathing areas (where the chickens lie down and kick dirt into their feathers to keep parasites at bay). That's totally normal.

If you put fake eggs in the nest boxes, they'll likely lay there. Red Sex Links often start laying early, so expect eggs any day now! Be sure to post a pic of your first egg!!
 
I'll get some pics soon. Last eve we came home after dark from visiting relatives and all six were in the coop. :) so my concerns were invalid which is good. I watched them dust bathe yesterday so that is what the depressions are for. No eggs as of yet but hoping soon. Should I change thier feed? What is the best for laying hens?
Sorry for all the questions.....
 

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