Bobwhite mudballs

[Willowspirit]

I had no idea this was a thing until I saw one of my hens huddled next to a huge mud ball. Then they both moved. Poor baby! First we tried soaking and manipulating. It took hours to get it off. Now we’re trying the quail in the crate with soapy water for them to soak in. We are torn on what kind of bedding to add to prevent it from happening again. Their pen is as natural as possible with different grasses but also muddy dirt. I’d like to keep the grasses but cover the mud. Ideas?

 

[le_bwah]

My climate is pretty dry, but I've had success with landscaping bark (pieces 1/2-1 inch at the longest) in a planted aviary. I go for pine or fir, not cedar. Spread it about an inch thick (thicker if you get a lot of rain) and turn/stir it to keep from molding. I don't see why wood chips wouldn't work, either.

 

[Willowspirit]

That is really beautiful! Thank you!