I have been reviewing my set up, I am really happy with all the space my gang has, the sleeping roosting platform is a great hit with all, the height is still a bit high for the old lady Penelope I feel (tho then I see her hoping into that wheelbarrow). And very easy to clean, I just pick the poops into a little bucket I have, there are hardly any on the floor to clean up. I don’t have to bend over and strain my back, so glad I changed it up and appreciate everyone’s input into the design of this - it really helped me to figure out what I required
One thing I have found which I feel reduces any conflict is the fact they can escape into a stall and hide from a more aggressive hen or the Roo if he gets to amorous.
And of course there is always good pickings in the stalls hahaha.
conclusions: the one level platform worked great for me.
Having a separate place to get away is important.
Ease of cleaning is important also, the coops and run both need to be easy for a person to get in and clean up. A simple thing like daily scraping poop off of roosts, ramps, and platforms keeps things clean not smelling, and helps prevent disease in the flock and bumble foot. Raking up the floor daily also keeps things clean and only takes about 5 or 10 min if done daily
I also try to keep ‘junk’ put away or trashed, especially with the crazy horses don’t need to be tripping over buckets, bins, garbage and what-not. Bring us back to the ease of cleaning bit
So, organized, clean, spacious, hiding places. All are needed for chickens, well actually all animals, it’s just good animal husbandry I am finding.
Thoughts all?
mine have plenty of space now, the shelf platform is so easy to clean and they much happier with all the SPACE! No more fighting
