Dowel size for roost?

[dixieL]

My husband purchased 1/2 inch dowels for our girls to roost on....they aren't using them. Are they too small? If so, what size is good. I have 2 Buffs, 1 BSL and 1 Ameraucana.
Thanks!

 

[JJSS89]

When chickens roost in trees they usually perch on 1-2" branches. 1/2" dowel would likely be too slick and small to be comfortable.

 

[chiques chicks]

Many people use 2x4 lumber with the wide side up. Especially if you have cold winters, they can sit on their feet to keep them warm.

 

[JJSS89]

Yes that seems to be the thing to use these days. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's noticed that chickens cover their feet just as well when perched on a tree limb

 

[chiques chicks]

My one coop has 2x4, two have tree limbs about that size split lengthwise so I had a flat side down for mounting. Both work equally well. Birds show no preference, some have access to both.

 

[JackE]

1/2" is for parakeets. If the roost has any kind of span at all, a full grown hen will snap that small piece of wood. I used 2X4"s for my coop, wide side up, sitting in notches, so they are easily removed for cleaning/maintenance.

 

[ChickenMammX4]

We have a 2 x 4, wide side up

 

[dixieL]

I bought pipe insulation to put around the dowels...one hen is now using the roost! Thanks for the info.

 

[dixieL]

I'm in central FL...no worries about cold winters here! I'm more worried about keeping the girls comfy on the days when the heat index is 110+.

 

[enola]

My chickens prefer a small tree trunk (4") over a 2X4.