Any hope in reducing the poop?

[RendonRoo]

Looks like you have a dirt floor. If so they will pick up all the natural grit that they need. Some ppl like to put some out for them anyway and i have to agree it's better to have it and not need it. I also agree with the others about raising the food and water.

 

[patandchickens]

Raising the feeder and waterer to the height of their backs when standing, and rigging them so chicks can't perch on top, are the two biggest things.

One additional thing that'll help, though, is to move the feeder and waterer to where they're NOT in the way of where chickens jump down from the roost. That kicks up a bunch of bedding/poo, some of which lands where you don't want it.

Good luck,

Pat

 

[columbiacritter]

Quote:
? I was worried because they eat all the bugs that come into there. Don't they need this?

They may need grit, but not oyster shell. Grit helps them digest food other than chick starter. Oyster shell is a source of calcium for layers. If you can't find chick grit at your feed store, try parakeet grit from the petstore. Just make sure it's calcium-free.

I wouldn't bother to buy grit with the dirt floor you have. They will find enough scratchig around on the floor.

 

[pascopol]

Quote:
Elevating food and water will help but it will not eliminate the problem.

Chicks are capable of pooping in horizontal direction as well.
My wall 6 inches away from the brooding cage is covered with poo all over.

LOL

 

[Lil Chickie Mama]

Quote:
Chickens will swing on purpose?

That's awesome!

Now I want to put a swinging perch in my coop-lower than the roost of course.

 

[aidenbaby]

So... I have a dirt floor in my run too. Should I just toss the grit I already bought (and opened) onto the floor of it and if they get some, Yeah, if not, oh well?

 

[Rex Mom]

Gee and I thought I was the only one that noticed an increase in eating and pooping! Mine are now 3 weeks old (looking like Dino chicks) and I am amazed at the volume of feed they eat now!! Little mini vacs...LOL. Can't wait to move them to a bigger area and out of the brooder. They have me cleaning every other day now~