Hens not using the roosts in the Coop

[Rb Chickens]

Dry to make a part of the roost were they can see outside as they will feel they can see everything. Also i would try to find bamboo sticks instead of 2x4's

 

[TalkALittle]

They may be reluctant to jump up because of the limited head room above the roosts. Additionally, it looks like there is no good place to take off from when jumping up. Seems like they would have to be under one roost in order to jump up on the other. They also need a clear path down. I just think it's too cramped. I might swap the roosts for one longer one that spans the longest dimension and is in the section of the coop with a higher roof.

 

[amiachicknorwat]

We bought the place with 2x4's in coop, but your suggestion sounds better for their feet. I figure, like any bird, they're used to grasping round branches. But bamboo is somewhat slippery. Maybe a dowel would work even better. I'll leave the 2x4's cuz them use them and add a dowel or bamboo shoot, whichever I get first. Thanks

 

[desertrocks]

We bought the place with 2x4's in coop, but your suggestion sounds better for their feet. I figure, like any bird, they're used to grasping round branches. But bamboo is somewhat slippery. Maybe a dowel would work even better. I'll leave the 2x4's cuz them use them and add a dowel or bamboo shoot, whichever I get first. Thanks

We have 2x4's also at this time which are temporary as the nest boxes still have to be added. We considered closet rods which are in essence 1"- 1-1/4" dowels but looking at the chickens feet are opting for 2x3's which will have the corners taken off of them. I saw the idea posted somewhere in which they said something about splinters when using square cornered roosts and again, looking at the foot structure, the size and shape of the rounded edges of a 2x3 seems to be conducive to firm footing.

 

[TalkALittle]

Chickens don't have grasping feet. Narrow branches or slick bamboo is not appropriate. Thick, wide branches are alright and 2x4s or 2x3s wide side up are ideal.

 

[amiachicknorwat]

Great feedback, thanks to you and talkalittle. I dont want our hens to get bumble foot, potentially from splinter, so will check the perches when vacant and watch their feet a bit as they perch.