Bedding in Coop

[chicken995]

I know most people use pine shavings or sand, but would shavings from maple/poplar/oak/alder work? I know it's best to keep the cedar away, but are those woods okay? I ask because a guy not very far from me has tons of it and is giving it away.

Here is the craigslist post.

http://fortcollins.craigslist.org/zip/2380985288.html

 

[faykokoWV]

I think only cedar is a problem but I'm not an expert. My understanding is it the oils/aromatics of the cedar that poses a risk.

 

[mdguffey]

i think i have access from the same place. has anyone used this yet?? any problems? would like to hear from anyone who has used this type for nesting boxes. thanks

 

[Joe.G]

I don't see a problem with it I used wood chips and saw dust from all types of trees, I get it for free from my local sawmill.

 

[mdguffey]

I don't see a problem with it I used wood chips and saw dust from all types of trees, I get it for free from my local sawmill.

i am just a little leery, so many say don't, it'll harm the hens, and others say it's fine. ill go slow and try it in a box or 2 and see what happens.

 

[redhen689]

My brother cuts a lot of trees, oak, ash, hickory, and many others. I have used his chainsaw shavings without and problems at all.
Then again, in the past I've used cedar too, because I thought it would reduce the chance of insect infestations.
I've had hens that lived 8-10 years, with no real health problems. (The one that lived the longest was killed by a preditor, not disease.)

My coop is very open with lots of ventilation, so that could be a factor.

 

[mdguffey]

from the sound of it, it seems to not be a problem, i do appreciate all the feedback, i wouldnt want to do anything to harm my hens.