Chickens and Above Ground Pools

[richlandspilot]

I am planning on moving my hens out to the coop soon and the plan is to allow them to free range part time. I will be building a chicken tractor as well. My question is really about the free ranging, since I have an above ground pool. The pool uses a salt system so I am not overly worried about them getting sick, but even though I clip their wings I am sure they will find a way to get up on to the ledge of the pool. Is there anything to worry about with them falling in? Can they swim? I heard they could get waterlogged and die but would they jump out before that happens? Would I be better off only allowing them to free range when supervised (which would be significantly less time).

Advice is surely appreciated.

Thanks. Eric

 

[Baymule]

I found this thread with pics of swimming chickens. https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/538337/silly-swimming-chickens-i-mean-ducks-i-mean-chickens

Just make sure you have a ramp or some way they can get out if they get in the pool. I keep a 1x4 in our horse trough for animals that get in to get a drink, so they can get back out. I call it the "squirrel stick". Without it, they drown and I have to fish them out, bail out all the water, clean the trough (8' across and 3' high galvanized) and refill it. Easier and much more considerate of the wildlife to provide them an escape.

 

[richlandspilot]

Do you think they will be able to swim to a ramp? The don't have webbed feet so I would imagine they wouldn't get far. I plan on clipping their wings anyway so hopefully they will not reach the pool since it is at least 3 feet in the shallow areas (4 1/2 ft pool but the yard slopes).

 

[BooBear]

Surprising thing is they can swim; however, if their feathers get too soaked and they start to panic they will drown. Chickens can jump high also so clearing 6 ft can even be easy for some breeds.

By adding a floating ramp or device that is easy for critters to get on and exit the pool should help if any get too curios about the pool. After all it is not just the cat that curiosity gets.

 

[7L Farm]

Off topic but What kind of pool do you have? I'm wanting an above ground pool > Are you happy with your pool or is there another pool that you wished you'd gotten? Is salt water the way to go ? I need a pool here at the farm it gets too hot here .