Deep Litter method

[B'villechicken]

Quote:
I use deep litter all year long. I don't see why it would not work for you in a warmer climate. Per many posts here, aromatic cedar shavings are potentially harmful to hens' respiratory systems.

 

[goosemama]

Yes I've read that cedar shavings can be toxic so use the pine or hardwood shavings - they are much cheaper anyway - you can get a huge plastic bale of them for around $5. I think the deep litter method w/DE would be beneficial in the south as well - it would kind of insulate and of course the DE works to keep it dry and kill pests like lice etc. that would affect your chickens.

 

[PandoraTaylor]

You guys have it made...My pine shavings cost $20.00 per bale (even at walmart). Hay 9-11.00 per bale, Straw 15-20 Per Bale (even from Local farmers)!

 

[lesterlu]

pandora,

can you find a feed or farm store nearby? i drive 15-20 minutes to mine and stock up on the cheap shavings. where do you get your feed? they dont have shavings?