Best material for outdoor run..

[EireRoo]

The weather's been pretty awful over here..my pens are getting mucky as my flocks have to stay locked up for now due to the mink I'm trying to trap.
What can I use? I took some advice on the bark stuff for gardens and bought it only to be told it'll get mouldy and make my birds sick ..
Is softwood/hardwood chips my best option?

 

[aart]

I took some advice on the bark stuff for gardens and bought it only to be told it'll get mouldy and make my birds sick

Bagged bark from a garden center?
Who told you it would mold?

I've used bagged pine bark chunks in the past, not as good as wood chippings from a tree trimmer but it didn't mold. Just a thin layer should help.

How is the drainage in your run?
Pics might help here.

Oh, and...Welcome to BYC! @EireRoo
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, and then it's always there!

 

[EireRoo]

Thanks I'm in Ireland.
My pens not huge it's literally an exercise area for times like this when predators Are about etc.
So is the concept about the pine bark causing mould and respiratory illness true as I'm noticing conflicting evidence.
Thanks for the welcome and your reply