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Dust bath

Discussion in 'New Member Introductions' started by jake1992, Aug 14, 2014.

Most Liked Posts
  1. Aug 14, 2014 #1
    jake1992

    jake1992 Hatching

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    Can I use the same saw dust I use for a rabbit hutch in my dust bath ? I'm new to this I know the basics but trying to get everything covered before I collect my chickens on Saturday
    Thanks in advance :D
     
  2. Aug 14, 2014 #2
    TwoCrows

    TwoCrows Bird is the Word Staff Member Premium Member 7 Years

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    My Coop
    Hello there and welcome to BYC! [​IMG]

    I can't see why not...they can dust bathe in just about anything however dirt is used to strip the oils of the feathers and then the birds put more oil back on. I am not 100% sure saw dust will do what it is supposed to. You might ask this question in our Managing Your Flock section for more input on the use if saw dust...https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/2/managing-your-flock

    Enjoy your flock and we do welcome you to ours!
     
  3. Aug 14, 2014 #3
    BantamLover55

    BantamLover55 Songster

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    The great outdoors, making music, and waiting for
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    My concern with the sawdust would be if the birds got it in their lungs. I would recommend sand. Good luck with your new chickens!!!

    - BantamLover55
     
  4. Aug 14, 2014 #4
    Mountain Peeps

    Mountain Peeps Change is inevitable, like the seasons Premium Member

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    Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

    I agree with bantam lover55. It might be too dusty. I'd stick with dirt or sand. Save the shavings for the coop.
     
  5. Aug 14, 2014 #5
    Michael OShay

    Michael OShay Crowing

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    Welcome to BYC! Glad you decided to join our flock. I agree with the other members; don't use saw dust as there are too many potential health problems with it. I use wood ash in a big, flat box for my flock to take their dust baths in. They absolutely love it, and wood ash is more effective than dust or sand at preventing lice and mite problems. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. We are here to help in any way we can. Good luck with your flock.
     
  6. Aug 14, 2014 #6
    Kelsie2290

    Kelsie2290 Free Ranging Premium Member

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  7. Aug 15, 2014 #7
    drumstick diva

    drumstick diva Still crazy after all these years. Premium Member 9 Years

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    Out to pasture
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  8. Aug 15, 2014 #8
    Stiggy

    Stiggy Songster

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    I agree with the others a dirt/ sand/ mixed bath is best. I have mine as a childs clamshell sandpit and it sits on my porch in the sun where it is covered ( mud baths aren't popular here) and is protected from the wind also. They love being able to bath in the sun
     

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