For my first batch of chicks, the feed store recommended TerrAmigo. It's pine shaving pressed into pellets, basically. It was about $7.00 for a 50-pound bag if I remember right. Cleanup is really est. Just use a kitty litter scoop like you would the sand.
It is not dusty at all, but they can not dust bathe, either. It's a dark brown color and offsets the color of the feed, making it easier for them to scratch and peck, thus reducing waste. When you're done, you can thoroughly clean and reuse like we did or compost it. I throw it in the main coop when it gets too dirty, since we deep litter also.
We use fermented feed for all of our girls, even the chicks, so it's less messy. Get a long silverware tray divider or pen divider and attach it to the side of the brooders. Lay a wide ruler across the top lengthwise for a partial lid and you can eliminate that mess altogether.
It is not dusty at all, but they can not dust bathe, either. It's a dark brown color and offsets the color of the feed, making it easier for them to scratch and peck, thus reducing waste. When you're done, you can thoroughly clean and reuse like we did or compost it. I throw it in the main coop when it gets too dirty, since we deep litter also.
We use fermented feed for all of our girls, even the chicks, so it's less messy. Get a long silverware tray divider or pen divider and attach it to the side of the brooders. Lay a wide ruler across the top lengthwise for a partial lid and you can eliminate that mess altogether.
