2 WEEK OLD CHICKS EATING THE PAPER TOWEL!

[MontanaDolphin]

I just replied to another thread you posted in about this...just bake the sand in your oven at 200 degrees for an hour...or longer if it isn't dry yet. I actually rinsed mine first, so mine was wet. Spread the sand on cookie sheets and pop them in the oven!

 

[kynewbchickie]

Thanks for that idea, I will look into that. I'm still wondering if it is okay to just use the sand from the back yard (no chemicals), or is that bad for some reason? Can they get coccidia from it?

There could be hidden bacteria in that, true - from other animals, bird droppings - but I'm not sure that it would be a real cause for concern. Perhaps one of the more seasoned folks here can help you out with that. Good luck!

 

[ellie32526]

There could be hidden bacteria in that, true - from other animals, bird droppings - but I'm not sure that it would be a real cause for concern. Perhaps one of the more seasoned folks here can help you out with that. Good luck!

I'm not sure I qualify as a seasoned folk, this is my first flock. I think a lot of people who use sand use what they have around their home, at the creek bed or wherever. I just didn't have that opportunity so I bought mine. They can get coccidian from wild bird droppings. I don't think using the sand from your yard will hurt them as long as there are no chemicals in it.

 

[kynewbchickie]

In all honesty, there are risks for bacteria in everything that isn't in a bubble.

 

[ellie32526]

In all honesty, there are risks for bacteria in everything that isn't in a bubble.

I agree. Just cause we can't see it does not mean it isn't there!