Hi everyone newbie here

[Jinxchick]

Hi all, my name is debbie I live in north wales in the uk with my hubby Alan and 3 year old border collie Jinxy, I have just got my first silkies a gold breeding pair aged 6 months and a splash not sure as to whether female yet as only 4 months they are lovely, I have a coop and it has a ladder that goes down to the bottom so they can get into the run but they have no clue as to how it works, how do you encourage them as I don’t want to keep opening the coop up to get them in and out as it probably stresses them, what do you use to help with the dirt becoming muddy, I was told different things hardwood chips but then I was told not to use that , then someone said use pea gravel again then told not to as it can cause problems with their feet totally confused. As I’m new to this and want them to be comfortable in their surroundings, my garden slopes so it is very difficult to put the coop and run elsewhere, thanks everyone xx

 

[DucksAreBest]

Hello, welcome to BackYard Chickens! Thank you for joining our community.

 

[Sapphire Sebright]

Hi all, my name is debbie I live in north wales in the uk with my hubby Alan and 3 year old border collie Jinxy, I have just got my first silkies a gold breeding pair aged 6 months and a splash not sure as to whether female yet as only 4 months they are lovely, I have a coop and it has a ladder that goes down to the bottom so they can get into the run but they have no clue as to how it works, how do you encourage them as I don’t want to keep opening the coop up to get them in and out as it probably stresses them, what do you use to help with the dirt becoming muddy, I was told different things hardwood chips but then I was told not to use that , then someone said use pea gravel again then told not to as it can cause problems with their feet totally confused. As I’m new to this and want them to be comfortable in their surroundings, my garden slopes so it is very difficult to put the coop and run elsewhere, thanks everyone xx

Welcome to BackYard Chickens! We're very glad that you've decided to join us, and we hope that you enjoy your time on the site!

 

[416bigbore]

Hello Debbie and Alan welcome to BYC, You found an Awesome poultry Forum to be a part of with many great knowledgeable members who are more then willing to jump in and help you with any questions you may have.

 

[sourland]

Hello, debbie, and welcome to BYC.

 

[N F C]

Hi Debbie, it's nice to have you here with us!

 

[Jinxchick]

Thank you x

 

[DobieLover]

Hello, Debbie and Alan, and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Welcome to our FUNomenal Community!

Best Wishes & Be Well!

 

[swampfox440]

Welcome to BYC ! Sometimes you have to do what you think is best in your situation or try some different things . Without seeing the pitch of you land and knowing your annual rainfall and other details it is a tough call . Good luck with your choice .