Dust bath size?

[ImportTheBest]

Our chickens are going to be in a permanent run so I want to make a good sized dustbath for them that will be in the run and under cover so it doesn't get wet every time it rains.

But what size is a good size to make it?

There will be 11 chickens (whoops, I blame chicken math) ranging from a standard polish to a buff orpington in size. I know they won't all use the dust bath at the same time, so maybe big enough for 3 at a time?? What do you recommend?

FYI I'm hoping to construct the outer frame and walls from scrap 2x4s and fence boards.

 

[Poultry parent]

I'd go with one that's big enough for 4, my chickens often go dustbathing in groups

 

[fightingbunny]

Okay, how big is one that is big enough for 4?

 

[Poultry parent]

It of course depends on the size of the chickens. Go with about 1 sq foot per bird, more for bigger birds, less for smaller

 

[rosemarythyme]

My dust bath for 4 birds is 42" square and they comfortably fit that. It's a small garden bed kit from Home Depot. If you're building your own I'd go 48" square as that's an easy length to cut from lumber.

 

[ImportTheBest]

Okay, thanks so much! I'll plan for that in the run asap.