Bedding

[ebianc89]

What does everyone use for bedding in their coops? Right now I am using chopped straw but was wondering what you all use!

 

[WiddleChix]

Pine shavings

 

[Cherib603]

A layer of DE or Stall Dry with a thick layer of bark mulch. Stays pretty dry and easy to go thru with a rake once a week and turn over.

 

[purslanegarden]

I use straw and whenever I change it out (after a few months), I take the used straw to a compost pile where it sits another 6-12 months before being used as compost.

 

[Cherib603]

I stay away from straw in a wet environment just because it gets moldy and the mold spores are bad for the ducks.

 

[chickens really]

I use Pine shavings and sprinkle flea and mite killer in the house under the shavings.....Works for me.

 

[ebianc89]

What kind of bark mulch do you use.

 

[Cherib603]

I bought the cheapest mulch Lowes had. Anything but cedar. Make sure it is not the kind with the big wood chunks. Been using it for 2 months now. No smell.

 

[Khasimir]

I use straw and whenever I change it out (after a few months), I take the used straw to a compost pile where it sits another 6-12 months before being used as compost.

I do the same thing. I use about a 2x4 bale every week and keep layering it. I change out about once every 6 months and compost as well. Luckily, I use converted horse stalls in my barn for my ducks, so I can afford the space to build up a 6-8" based over the course of 6 months.
No worries about the straw getting wet either, since I store it indoors and ducks don't waste enough water to cause the straw to go moldy.

 

[nannychachi]

I use a thick layer of straw and change it out every Saturday. I rake it all up and then scrape the floor with a square shovel.