New chicken owner needs advice

[Daisymaeberry]

I would appreciate any suggestions. I just got 3 silkies and am building a coop with a run that has to be on cement. Should I lay hay or nesting material on top of the cement in the run? If so, how thick etc, how often to change it. I'm going to let them free range as weather allows when I'm home.
I'm a total newbie to this and would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks


I would also like to get a few more after my coop is done, the ones I got are about 6 weeks old. Any tips on putting new ones with the others?

 

[mrchicks]

Hi! Welcome to BYC!

I have sand in my runs, it's easy to clean and cuts down on odor.

To put chicks of different ages together, first have them side by side, separated by chicken wire. That way they can get to know each other before they are all together. It really cuts down on the squabbling.

I'm sure someone else will be along with more tips shortly.

 

[Daisymaeberry]

Thanks! How thick do you put the sand and how often do you change it out?

 

[mrchicks]

Mine is three or four inches think, but it's over packed dirt. I rake it usually once a week to get anything big out, and to keep it fresher. I added to it on the second year because it was getting a bit thin.

 

[Daisymaeberry]

Any suggestions for what's best over cement in the run?
I appreciate any advice... Thx.w