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
Hello there and welcome to BYC! 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!
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
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.
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.
Hello and Welcome To BYC! You've gotten some good suggestions above, there are also a number of threads where people talk about their favorite mixes https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/645891/what-is-your-favorite-dust-bath-mixture
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