My hens are pecking along chain link fence line and old railroad ties.

[sitamay]

My hens scratch and peck all along the walls and fence lines of the range area. I am worried because of high zinc levels (231 ppm) in the fenced area with railroad ties. Any thoughts? Thank you so much for considering!

 

[rosemarythyme]

How long is the fence line in question?

If it's not TOO long, and you have some trees on your property, you can try lining the fence line with branches/logs to prevent them from digging right against it, though if the soil is contaminated this probably won't make a huge difference.

 

[aart]

I am worried because of high zinc levels (231 ppm) in the fenced area with railroad ties. Any thoughts?

You've had these measured....soil testing?

 

[sitamay]

You've had these measured....soil testing?

I had testing done. Also, just on the other side of the fence it is lined with YIkes! railroad ties! I have had five chickens die. I go them when they were 10 weeks. They are now 20 weeks and I fear that this is what caused their demise. I am awaiting necrospy results from the last poor girl.