Best substrate for outdoor duck pen?

[OneLuckyDuck]

Hello all,

I am relatively new to BYC - ducks. My introductory post can be seen here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/hello-from-the-duck-pond.1310537/

I have been enjoying searching this site and seeing all the great ideas and knowledge you each have. I am trying to set up a duck run for which my ducks can have access to while I am not home. They generally are free range when I am home and able to supervise. Ideally, I would like this run to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. I envision the ducks being able to access their indoor run/shed (need to be built) but come and go into the outdoor portion as they wish. I would also like for them to have access to a pool or such while in this pen. In light of this, I would, of course, need to ensure predator proof but my main question is regarding the flooring. I would love to avoid having a muddy mess (well as minimal as one can have with ducks. I have found straw to work well in their brooder pen. Has anyone found the deep litter method suitable for outdoor flooring?

Would welcome any insight and pictures of setups that work well for you. We are in the northeast so see all seasons and all temperatures if that matters.

Thank you.

 

[chickens really]

Sand and sidewalk blocks work great..Pine shavings in the house during summer and pine shavings and straw during winter.

 

[OneLuckyDuck]

Sand and sidewalk blocks work great..Pine shavings in the house during summer and pine shavings and straw during winter.

Do you have much trouble with files and the sand?

 

[chickens really]

Do you have much trouble with files and the sand?

No I turn the sand every few days so no real fly issues.

 

[DiYMama540]

I'm currently having success with pine needles. I have access to tons of them, turn them a couple times then replace.