Branches or 2x4's?

[coq au vin]

Quote:
Sleeping chickens do not grasp and hold round perches the way parrots and other birds do. They simply rest on them. It's just how their feed are made. Would they sit on a board in the wild? Well, no...but they would choose a branch of very large diameter such that the curve would be negligible.
These are just the facts on the matter.

 

[SassyKat6181]

Thanks for all the input.

I think since I've got plenty of room, that I'll offer them an assortment of branches and boards and let them decide what feels best on their feet.

 

[Schultz]

Quote:
Sleeping chickens do not grasp and hold round perches the way parrots and other birds do. They simply rest on them. It's just how their feed are made. Would they sit on a board in the wild? Well, no...but they would choose a branch of very large diameter such that the curve would be negligible.
These are just the facts on the matter.

No one ever said they needed to "grasp" them while they sleep. The way that their feet should "rest" is still in the circular position. Chickens, while domesticated by man, still came from the Red Jungle Fowl. Many people use 2x4s for roosts and it doesnt seem to be a problem. I'm not saying that they are wrong. I was only stating my opinion because the OP asked. I really feel better about my chickens and turkeys roosting on branches but that is only my opinion like I stated.

 

[woodmort]

Quote:
Me too. My chickens have been using the same ash trunks as roosts for 35 years--no problem in -20 degree weather.

 

[afinney]

I use boards but only because I was always told that it's better for them??? but I know people who use branches and their chickens are fine...I like your idea SassyKat6181 to put both in and to let them choose

 

[gritsar]

I use 2 x4s. Once they get balanced, release their feet and rest on their keel bone, they are able to cover the entire foot with their feathers. If I used branches they wouldn't be able to cover the tips of their toes, no matter how wide the branch, and that's where frostbite would get them.