Muddy Coop

[emilygracek]

I currently have 10 four-month-olds in a large dirt floor coop, which was originally constructed as an aviary. This housing was intended to be temporary until we set up a more suitable coop for the new members of the family, however we won't be able to start constructing the new coop as soon as expected.
Coming from 'down unda', we are currently experiencing a fair bit of rain (thank goodness!). This does mean though, that the dirt floor is constantly damp, and becomes muddy after a big rain. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how I could improve the living conditions for my birds until their new home is ready?
We do have perches set up in the coop, however all of the chickens instead cuddle up on the floor in a corner of the coop to sleep, regardless of whether the ground is dry or not. Any suggestions for how I can encourage them to sleep on the perches?
Thanks!

 

[silkiechicken]

Sand for drainage may help keep it drier. As for perching, every night put them physically on the perches. A few day to a week should get the message across. make sure the perches are wide enough they can lay on them, as they don't grip onto perches like other birds while sleeping.

 

[CrazyPetunias]

Try putting a wood pallet on the floor to get them off the dirt.

 

[chfite]

More sand to allow the chickens to walk on the sand rather than in the mud. The surface of the sand may feel damp, but shouldn't bother the chickens.

Chris

 

[emilygracek]

Oh, thank you all so very much! I'll definitely use these ideas, cheers.