Improviing our roosts

[SusanD]

Hi,

My Dad put a permanent roost in our coop, because the removable ones that came with it weren't working very well (fine for one chicken, but were toppling over with three chickens jockeying for space. It is still hit or miss whether the old roost will topple over or will stay in place. They haven't tried the new roost yet.

My question, could the reason they are not using is the new roost be that it is too big for them? It's meant for full grown chickens (mine were born in February, so are very close to full grown). If not, should I take the old roosts out and encourage them to use the new one? Or give it more time?

Thanks,

Susan

 

[gillisjordan]

Try removing the old roost to prompt them to try the new one. What size material is the new roost. We typically use 2x2 lumber so our roots are 1 1/2" X 1 1/2"

 

[SusanD]

I will try that tonight. The new roost is one of these that I bought from the feedstore. My dad attached it to the sides, so it wouldn't topple over also. If this doesn't work out, then would something like a board be the way to go?

Thanks,

Susan

 

[henless]

What kind of roost came with the coop?

I agree with gillisjordan. Take out the old roost so that they will have to use the new one. If you continue to have trouble with it, try a wider board, a good size tree branch or wooden dowel.