Dust baths

[BigBlueHen53]

I've read on here to use construction sand rather than play sand. I think the play sand is too fine.

 

[Egg Snatcher]

So my chicks are probably about 5-6 weeks now(one is a little younger than the rest). I have been trying to get dust so the can take dust baths but every time I try to pick it up locally its out of stock. I was wondering if it is better to make your own dust mix? Or if any one has any recommendations on brands?

Get a old shallow bowl, put dirt in it from outside and give it to chicks, you can also put this in a smaller chicken coop, or you can get an old tier and put dirt in it and put that in their coop ( depending on your size of coop). Or an old kiddy pool will work just as well.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Also, some might correct me on this, but I'm very sparing of wood ashes in their dust bath. Hardwood ashes plus rain water = lye, right? Which is very caustic. DE, if it does any good at all, turns to mush, losing its microscopic sharp edges when it gets wet, so it would be kind of a waste to put it in a sandbox where it might get wet. That's my opinion, FWIW.

 

[Vickischics]

Thank you!! So I think I I'll mix up some peat moss and sand since they are pretty quickly attainable. Is there any difference in whether I use play sand or local sand? I was thinking the play sand would be finer but idk if that makes a difference.

I don't recommend play sand. Reason is..it is very fine and made of quartz therefore, is pretty dusty. Their lil lungs can't deal with it. I use construction sand. It's often the kind used to lay pavers with. A little bit more course and no dust.
Have fun!