Need help with run...

[JesCelina]

We just finished building our chicken run ( pictured below) and am wondering how I would go about keeping the ground cleaned? I tried to rake it but it doesnt want to pick up any suggestions on how to help keep it cleaned? Is there something I could put down? thanks in advance

 

[Shelbyrose17]

I had the same exact problem and I put some construction sand in mine. I was weary but people swore by it. I have had it in there for about a month now and it is fantastic! Everything gets absorbed so its not muddy, its natural dust bath, and the scraps you throw in stay on the top. Its really cheap too! I have found this is the best especially over pine bedding which can get expensive.

 

[JesCelina]

I love the idea of the construction sand!! I had filled a plastic pan of it and placed it in their run for them to bath in. I am not free ranging them yet. I am a 1st time owner of 3 girls and am petrified of letting them loose! Thanks for your reply Shelbyrose...I will try that

 

[Shelbyrose17]

I am also a first timer! Its not to scary letting them free range sometimes. I have 8 girls so they watch out for each other. I didn't exactly let them either. I was cleaning their coop one day and they escaped

Now I let them range when I am supervising

 

[JesCelina]

lol, thats great! I will eventually let them free range when I can watch them...are they hard to get back in? haha

 

[21hens-incharge]

I bait mine back in with black oil sunflower seeds. I always use the same scoop and when they see that scoop entering the yard they come running.

 

[JesCelina]

I will definitely try that, thanks