Best materials for roosts?

[Chelseyb123]

I'm redoing my coop come spring an was thinking of replacing my roosts which are large thick tree branches. Should I use something else?

 

[Egghead_Jr]

2x2's are easy and cheap. If longer span 2x3 or 2x4. My 2x2's span 7 feet and may hold up to ten birds- haven't broken yet.

 

[imnukensc]

Large, thick tree branches should be fine.

 

[Chelseyb123]

Okay well than maybe ill make a ladder than with those sizes.

 

[Meg-in-MT]

From what I understand, roosts should be 2x4's with the 4" side being the one they stand on. Or at least something that is wide enough for them to stand flat footed on. Both because they aren't meant to grip rounds like your average bird and because they can get their feet completely covered up with their bodies when it's cold. I have 1x4's in one coop and 2x4's in the other, with the 2" side up, but that is getting changed this spring. I know everyone is different and prefers different things, but that is what I'm choosing to do and the reason why!

 

[Shadyfarms]

Yeah I use 2x4's (not pressure treated). 4" side up otherwise their toes will get frost bite. Don't use 2x2, not wide enough. You could use really thick tree branches as well, just make sure that when they sit on it, their toes are covered.

 

[Chelseyb123]

Okay. Cool. I think ill keep the tree branches but make a ladder to add. Ill have to figure out design an placement. I have 11 chickens btw

 

[Frazzemrat1]

I'm using 2x4s in the coop, and 2x4s and large branches in the run...

 

[Hokum Coco]

thinking of replacing my roosts

There are basically two schools of thought on this site. I use 2x4 wide side up personally. You already employ the other school of thought. I think both are more than adequate for a flock of chickens.

 

[IamRainey]

I love the look of natural branches and have driftwood roosts in the run. But I have 2X4s wide-side-up in the coop because it's so easy to scrape poo off the flat surfaces.

I also have to think that there's less gripping and balancing required so the girls get a more sound night's sleep.