Eastern Tennessee Thread

[cybercat]

In the past I used wood chips as bedding in summer and then added hay to that late fall. I kept bedding deep in winter like 8 or more inches. Since we are out of wood chips this year I am using Equine Pellets.
They would great since they are pine and break down to sawdust. Very absorbent and keep the coop dry. I only do clean out once a year since I turn bedding and my chickens free range. In spring is when it gets done. This year we are doing it twice due to so many feather from moults in coop. Will also be doing a vacuum for inside to get rid of bird dust. It is real thick this year. Got to get shop vac for that.

 

[SandraD]

Quote:
Oh never heard of equine pellets, that sounds good

 

[ladyride]

I am using equine pellets as well love that stuff !! I scoop the worst of the poo for composting stir it up good to go . Sprinkle in some sevin dust 1 a week to keep bugs down some de 1 a week to help keep it all dry..

 

[SandraD]

Quote:
Arnt you afraid that the chickens might eat some of the sevin dust?

 

[ladyride]

No they dust bathe in there alot I mix it in the bedding with a rake. Never really seen them pecking anywhere but their food containers. Won't say it couldn't be a problem just had not noticed it being one.

 

[tennesseeckn]

Quote:
I buy food grade d.e. And sprinkle it in the bedding to keep bugs down. My chickens can be counted on to eat anything that's bad for them.

 

[SandraD]

Quote:
I buy food grade d.e. And sprinkle it in the bedding to keep bugs down. My chickens can be counted on to eat anything that's bad for them.

I like that idea, but I do have a question. I thought chickens are good @ eating bugs for bug control

 

[ladyride]

Not so much for mites & lice . That is what I am trying to prevent.

 

[SandraD]

Quote:
Oh I see. Thx ladyride

 

[ladyride]

Not so much for putting on the birds but when raked in they get the benefit. They are out for the day when I put it down & mix.