Dowel size for roost?

dixieL · Jun 23, 2015

My husband purchased 1/2 inch dowels for our girls to roost on....they aren't using them. Are they too small? If so, what size is good. I have 2 Buffs, 1 BSL and 1 Ameraucana.
Thanks!

JJSS89 · Jun 23, 2015

When chickens roost in trees they usually perch on 1-2" branches. 1/2" dowel would likely be too slick and small to be comfortable.

chiques chicks · Jun 23, 2015

Many people use 2x4 lumber with the wide side up. Especially if you have cold winters, they can sit on their feet to keep them warm.

JJSS89 · Jun 23, 2015

Yes that seems to be the thing to use these days. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's noticed that chickens cover their feet just as well when perched on a tree limb

chiques chicks · Jun 23, 2015

My one coop has 2x4, two have tree limbs about that size split lengthwise so I had a flat side down for mounting. Both work equally well. Birds show no preference, some have access to both.

JackE · Jun 23, 2015

1/2" is for parakeets. If the roost has any kind of span at all, a full grown hen will snap that small piece of wood. I used 2X4"s for my coop, wide side up, sitting in notches, so they are easily removed for cleaning/maintenance.

ChickenMammX4 · Jun 23, 2015

We have a 2 x 4, wide side up

dixieL · Jun 23, 2015

I bought pipe insulation to put around the dowels...one hen is now using the roost! Thanks for the info.

dixieL · Jun 23, 2015

I'm in central FL...no worries about cold winters here! I'm more worried about keeping the girls comfy on the days when the heat index is 110+.

enola · Jun 23, 2015

My chickens prefer a small tree trunk (4") over a 2X4.

Dowel size for roost?

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