Fluffy Butt Acres: Stories of our flock

[CrazyChookChookLady]

Ok, brains trust, I am thinking ahead to winter. We have had a few wet days so far this autumn and with our run not being covered I am thinking of solutions to the slushy cesspool potential of the ground before it happens.
I was originally thinking of a tarp over most of the top but I don’t think i will get it tight enough so the rain water will pool and won’t be a solution at all.
So I guess my question is what do you think will work as a ground cover in the run that will not get slushy but will not be too harsh on the girls soft beautiful feet? I think bark chips may present a problem but any opinions will be taken on board
Thank you in advance

Edited to add these pics, 2 things I found at my supply place that could work. Not as harsh as wood chips I don’t think but may provide a healthy cover and drain enough through to the soil but not allow it to be muddy ground if it is a thick enough covering
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In the states people swear by pellet horse bedding.

For those out of the states, I've heard a lot of folks like hemp bedding. We can't get that easily here, yet.

 

[Aussie-Chookmum]

A few of my chickens let me do light preening of pin feathers on their heads. I love it!

I am green with envy!

 

[Aussie-Chookmum]

If you can do it, I say go for it. Let's find out. Otherwise, binoculars work.

Only if they hold still and are facing you!

 

[Aussie-Chookmum]

Thanks, everyone. Ruby is still with us, but doesn’t want to come out. She was sitting face to face with Millie, and I brought some baby bird formula for them to share. Millie went right into it, but Ruby slowly walked to another box with her face in the corner. I feel bad for disturbing them and hope Ruby returns to Millie for comfort. I’m so sad.

At least she is in familiar surroundings with friends close by. I know that doesn't make it any easier for you though.

 

[Aussie-Chookmum]

Tranquility

After a crazy day there is nothing like a quiet moment with friends. I challenge everyone to turn off the TV or radio and just watch this 1 minute video.

I love me a good preening party. So relaxing.

 

[Aussie-Chookmum]

Ok, brains trust, I am thinking ahead to winter. We have had a few wet days so far this autumn and with our run not being covered I am thinking of solutions to the slushy cesspool potential of the ground before it happens.
I was originally thinking of a tarp over most of the top but I don’t think i will get it tight enough so the rain water will pool and won’t be a solution at all.
So I guess my question is what do you think will work as a ground cover in the run that will not get slushy but will not be too harsh on the girls soft beautiful feet? I think bark chips may present a problem but any opinions will be taken on board
Thank you in advance

Edited to add these pics, 2 things I found at my supply place that could work. Not as harsh as wood chips I don’t think but may provide a healthy cover and drain enough through to the soil but not allow it to be muddy ground if it is a thick enough covering
View attachment 2675840
View attachment 2675841

Don't buy straw. I did once and it gets slippery when wet.

I know Ribh uses sugar cane mulch and I have found it drains pretty well at my place when put down thickly. I was going to suggest stepping stones for you to pick your way across the ground but I like @featherhead007 's suggestion of the pallets if you can get them.

 

[Grandmas Coop]

In the states people swear by pellet horse bedding.
View attachment 2675883


For those out of the states, I've heard a lot of folks like hemp bedding. We can't get that easily here, yet.

I dont know,, I could really see why the chickens would eat this stuff --- I would use wood chips over this.

 

[BY Bob]

It was an excellent burger. Two all beef patties, sliced bacon, avocado, Swiss cheese and cottage cheese with pineapple on the side. Yum!

Yummy!

 

[BY Bob]

Ok, brains trust, I am thinking ahead to winter. We have had a few wet days so far this autumn and with our run not being covered I am thinking of solutions to the slushy cesspool potential of the ground before it happens.
I was originally thinking of a tarp over most of the top but I don’t think i will get it tight enough so the rain water will pool and won’t be a solution at all.
So I guess my question is what do you think will work as a ground cover in the run that will not get slushy but will not be too harsh on the girls soft beautiful feet? I think bark chips may present a problem but any opinions will be taken on board
Thank you in advance

Edited to add these pics, 2 things I found at my supply place that could work. Not as harsh as wood chips I don’t think but may provide a healthy cover and drain enough through to the soil but not allow it to be muddy ground if it is a thick enough covering
View attachment 2675840
View attachment 2675841

Tan bark will work if you get it deep enough.

 

[BY Bob]

It had spinach and fried onions too

You lost me at spinach. Blech.