floor of the run ?

[SCChick]

So my babies are getting close to being let outside, finally got the coop and run situated. The floor of the run is just dirt, about 4", over a layer of hardware cloth (we have every predator known to man). My newbie question, is dirt ok? Should I add sand, or pine shavings? The run is 7x13, and I have 5 standard girls.
Thanks for any advice!
Erin

 

[Rusty's Ranch]

I personally love putting sand in the run -- makes clean up really easy and it keeps the coop from getting muddy in bad weather. We've used sand in the run for 2 - 3 years and haven't had any problems with it.

 

[Yay Chicks!]

I add dried leaves on top of the dirt. I had a huge sweet gum tree that drops a ton of leaves. The girls love to kick through the leaves. I add a couple of wheelbarrows full every so often. They stomp them and the poop back into the dirt. It's been ages since I've had to clean the run. My run is covered and whether or not yours is covered may make a difference in your choice.