I'm concerned about their free range area...

[redwa]

OK - this time of year, things are getting quite dry in Nor Cal. The area we have for our chickens to free range is quite large but the soil is very dry (clay, lots of rocks, pebbles, dried plants). Today I felt what seemed to be like small pebbles in Tilly's crop. It seemed too large for grit. I am concerned that my girls are ingesting too large particles and that it is effecting their crop function. Two of my hens have had crop problems within the last few months. One we are still dealing with now. I know more than I want to know about impacted/sour crop and have taken every precaution and action to remedy the situation. Now I am thinking that the soil is contributing to the problem some how. Any ideas? Is this possible? Please advise. Thank you

 

[dlhunicorn]

set out regular little grit and oystershell "stations" for them (with a bowl of their feed)... ????

 

[devora]

I'm in Northern Cal so may have similar soil. I always leave out sand for them even tho they do seem to get most of their grit from foraging.

 

[redwa]

I will add some grit to their oyster shells and feed. Thank you! Do you think the pebbles in her crop will get broken down, eventually?

 

[pipermark]

be careful of purchasing sand ( like for a sandbox), it can carry parasites, IMHO setting out oyster shells or Grit that you purchase (which is sterilized sand) is your best bet (found this out the hard way).

 

[Frozen Feathers]

You can buy sterilized play sand, as well

I have it for DD's sand box.

 

[dlhunicorn]

(fine) sand can clog up things... young birds will often gorge on it and this will cause no end of problems.