Advised to not use 2x4s for Roosts...

[scooter147]

I've/family used 2x4's flat side up for 40 years, never and issue.

I would not used PVC pipe. I would think that would be difficult for the birds to grip.

 

[Bholder78]

I have to agree with everyone else. I would think PVC would be slick. Also like someone said I would think it would wick away heat in the winter. I've used 2x4s with no issues thus far.

 

[Rodman2cu]

Everyone has a different answer of what they use for roosts, but a common response I've seen is to use something like a 2x4 because chickens don't like to curl their toes - they sit on their feet when they sleep. Today I heard a couple experienced chickeners saying they use PVC pipe for roosts so the hens have to curl their toes a little, otherwise they are more likely to get bumblefoot. Anyone else heard this?

I use a round wood closet rod gift my chickens roost and built a 2*4 poop drop underneath that’s about 2*8 long and only 1 chicken will use it for roosting.

 

[5Australorpasaures]

Always used 2x4, run them down the table saw clipping about 3/4 front and back of the top edges. better bearing for little dirty birdie feet, plus feet are tucked tight in cold weather.

 

[Sally PB]

I use 2x4s with the narrow side up. As mentioned, when they roost, their feet disappear under their feathers. This set up has worked well for me and my chickens for almost 5 years now.

I chose narrow side up at the beginning because I'd read a couple of posts about chickens getting a "breast blister" from their keel bone rubbing against the roost on the wide side of a 2x4.

 

[moetrout]

In colder climates using a 2x4 with the flat side up allows the chickens to have their feet covered to prevent frostbite when they roost. I am in North Carolina now and the cold is not really a concern. I use tree branches, they are free and let's face it chickens just don't care.

 

[arianna7]

i find that chickens like flat roosts, i attached an image of one of mine if it helps.