deep litter

[CoffeeCow]

Could someone explain to me (a newbie) what deep litter is, and how it is good?

Edit:

Sorry, I'm a moron

Had I just looked around a bit I would have answered my own question.

Heres the thread https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=70

And thanks for explaining midget_farms your the best

 

[midget_farms]

I'll give it a try - others jump in where needed.

Deep litter is where you have 6 to 12 inches of wood shavings instead of 3 or 4. Instead of cleaning them out each week you add a couple inches more.

Many throw food on the floor so the chickens will stir them up & keep them from getting compacted.

If you use this method you need a tray or other method of catching droppings under the roost. Otherwise the shavings get very nasty very quick.

You also need to keep them dry - if your waterer leaks & soaks the shavings you will need to change them quick as they will really stink & will hold mold or worse.


This technique actually works pretty well & saves time & money if you keep it clean.