Is this slightly moldy straw ok?

[JKlafehn]

Hello,

I have a bale of decorative straw left over from last Halloween. The surface of it, where the bag was opened, looks like it has some mold on it from being outside.

I know mold spores are not good to have with your chickens but I’m wondering if you think it safe to pull off the top few inches and use the rest. The rest was covered and seems OK. I have a bale of decorative straw left over from last Halloween. The surface of it where the bag was opened, looks like it has some mold on it from being outside.

I know mold spores are not good to have with your chickens but I’m wondering if you think it’s safe to pull off the top few inches and use the rest. The rest was covered and seems OK. I was going to use straw in the lay boxes and hemp in the coop.

 

[aart]

I would not, especially inside the coop and/or nests.
Spread it out and let it 'weather' a bit more, then use it in the run.

 

[JKlafehn]

I would not, especially inside the coop and/or nests.
Spread it out and let it 'weather' a bit more, then use it in the run.

It’s ok to use it in the run?

 

[aart]

It’s ok to use it in the run?

No guarantees from me.
I have no idea what kind of mold it is...
...and if there are sufficient amounts to cause a problem.
Molds are everywhere, and are mostly harmless unless they bloom into copious amounts given the right environment.
Spreading it out to dry and weather might help render any mold less of a risk.