Deep Litter Method- Added sand and the chickens are freaked

[new2chickens13]

Hi all-I have been raising chicks since they were 1 week, now 15 weeks. We just added sand to the run so we can use the deep litter method. They all seem freaked out about it for some reason. We let them free range during the day 5/7 days a week and they were very scared to go in the run/coop last night. I actually had to put several in myself which has never been a problem. This morning they are all roosted on whatever they can to avoid the sand. I was thinking about leaving them in there for a day or two to get them adjusted unless there are other suggestions? This is my first time raising chickens. help!

 

[jthornton]

Chickens don't like change. When I switched to Sweet PDZ my hens would fly from the pop door to the roost to avoid stepping in it. In a few days they realized it would not harm them and started walking in it. Just give them time. If you can give them a portion without sand they might not be so afraid.

JT

 

[new2chickens13]

Chickens don't like change. When I switched to Sweet PDZ my hens would fly from the pop door to the roost to avoid stepping in it. In a few days they realized it would not harm them and started walking in it. Just give them time. If you can give them a portion without sand they might not be so afraid.

JT

Thank you! i figured a day or two they would adjust, but just wanted to make sure! Appreciate your response

 

[aart]

Chickens don't like change. When I switched to Sweet PDZ my hens would fly from the pop door to the roost to avoid stepping in it. In a few days they realized it would not harm them and started walking in it. Just give them time. If you can give them a portion without sand they might not be so afraid. JT

Had the same thing happen when I changed out shavings in coop...I now save a bit of the old shavings to camouflage the new shavings.

We just added sand to the run so we can use the deep litter method.

Why do you need sand to start deep litter? If you have drainage issues, probably need more than sand to 'fix' them.

Welcome to BYC! @new2chickens13
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