Search results for query: *

I've heard that hay or straw is just fine.....the general consensus seems to be that the straw has air gaps where small critters and bugs can hide.....and that it seems to draw and hold more moisture than pine chips.....but as far as being SAFE for the chickens, you can relax.....won't hurt them...

Quote: Carri- But isn't it the presence of a sufficient clutch of eggs (in the hens mind) that makes a hen go broody? If you remove the eggs she is laying, she will never go broody....the way I understand it...... I've heard you can use fake eggs in order to make her go broody, then replace...

I remember reading somewhere that the 4sf per bird was necessary if the birds have no outside run and are under constant confinement.....that number drops to 2 or 3sf per bird if they have an outside run available..... can't remember where I read it....

How would someone go about building a "dropping pit"? What materials? etc etc Sounds like a perfect idea.... I use a tray method under my brooder......it's 2'x4' and I bought 3 metal "donut" trays from the local restaurant supply and staggered them underneath....built slide outs out of 1x2...

I agree with the idea that a ceiling fan may hurt them when they fly from the roost or fly to avoid getting harrassed by the alpha chicken...... a small oscillating fan on a telescoping stand helps move air all over the coop....and then a small squirrel cage fan ducted to a dryer vent on the...