Damp shavings

[geareduplyn]

Quote:
These are a couple of inches deep. The chicks have been on them from day one, and the chicks are two weeks old.They will not be changed at all during the 6 weeks the chicks will remain in the Brooder tank. They will be broken down more but the bedding will still be dry and have no bad odor.

 

[ducks4you]

I have purchased pine shavings before that were damp. You might be able to repackage them in a couple of those big brown paper bags that are used for picking up leaves and yard waste. Then, you could use them for your birds when they are older.

Good, dry absorbant bedding is actually cheaper than poor bedding. Think of the word "Bedding" and the fact that your animals are captively living on top of it. You have made an investment in your birds and their health. Humidity and especially, ammonia will make ANY animal at least a little bit sick. I have taken to keeping my east door open ALL WINTER to keep down the ammonia from 3 horses and my one, older hen. Everyone's doing great, but the horses are mostly outside all of the time, now that Spring is here.

FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH:
I don't like to think about how much money I've spent on my animals over the years! I cut corners by buying cages, halters, dog collars/leashes, pet bowls, etc. when they go on sale. We have even begun taking apart our 8 x 10 playhouse/rabbit house to repair and recolate it for our new coop. (We have 10 RIR chicks growing fast!) How's that for cheap recycling!! (OR, we're nuts!!!)

 

[Schroeder]

Thank you. I love the way everyone looks out for each other on this forum. It sure has made my first chicken-raising experience thrilling.