Lilac bush in run?

[Brownb56]

Trying to decide on location of new chicken run. One possible option would put two decent size lilac bushes in the middle of it. Each about 7 feet tall. Not too fond of them so don't mind the chickens getting them. How far up the lilac bush do you think the chickens will eat? If they leave enough for shade it would be nice. Also wondering about them using the bushes to jump over the fence if too close.

 

[SIMZ]

Mine love to hang out under a big, ancient lilac bush we have. I've not seen them eating it or damaging it and it's great for shade. It is possible that they could use it to jump out if it's close to your fence, so take that into consideration.

 

[Brownb56]

Cool, I know my mom's always destroyed anything green they could get lol. Some are pretty acrobatic so expect to see one or two figure out how to get to the top. But planning on mostly heavy layers to stand up to our cold wyoming winters. Gets hot in the summer though so I'm sure they would appreciate the shade.

 

[Folly's place]

Welcome! Lilacs would be fine, although pick short varieties or plan to have a very tall run cover! Also viburnums or other native hardy shrubs. Chickens are jungle animals and want trees and shrubs to live under. They don't eat catnip or other mints, so that can work in the run too. Mary