Mulch in the coop

[Michael OShay]

Welcome to BYC! If you have predators in your area, you should attach some 1/2 inch hardware cloth under the run bedding to keep them from digging into your coop. Many a chicken owner has lost his or her birds by not taking this precaution. Good luck with your flock.

 

[Janice Fields]

I've thought about making just a small run in the grass (temporary, yes). So we'll try that too. I have to pick up meal worms. I know I read, I think on the chicken chick, that they should be used sparingly. They have just gotten so big in the week we've had them. We decided to go with seven week old chicks since I don't really have the room or time to raise them in the house. So far it's worked out great. I'll have to post a pic of the finished coop. Again, we are so short on room here and I was surprised that my hubby even thought this was possible.

You can make a simple chicken tractor using pvc pipe ant covering it with chicken wire. You dont have to cover the bottom. Then you can just raise the tractor up to let the chicks out. They will be safe from hawks, etc. And the tractor can be moved around. It took me about 4 hours to make 4 foot by 16 foot tractor. For 4 chickens. Throw a tarp over one end for shade. Put some water and food in it.

 

[rjohns39]

Hi and welcome to BYC My birds go to pasture at 3 weeks and start free ranging at 8 weeks. I keep them in their house for 3-7 days before letting them free range. They are mostly good about going to bed at night, with a few problem children. Again welcome to BYC glad you joined us