New to chickens - coop design questions - please help!

[buckaroo's wife]

Hello! I just entered the brave new world of owning chickens. Proud owner of one buff orphington and three ameraucanas.

My husband converted an old goat shed into a chicken coop for me. It does sit on the ground but we buried hardware cloth around the base and around the yard. The fence is 6 feet high.

Since I have a dirt floor, what is the best method for bedding? I only close them up in there at night. Right now, I'm using hay left over from our hay barn. I'm reading that it decomposes too fast? Would shavings be better? I live in north central Texas where it does get hot in the summertime.

Thanks for your help!
Sarah

 

[adeechickluv]

I've heard that hay mats up like a carpet and has been known to make birds crop-bound. Better use wood shavings (pine not cedar) and preferably softwood.

 

[buckaroo's wife]

I'm wondering if I were to go with shavings and possibly do the DLM, if it would be too hot in the summertime?

 

[jenjscott]

good ventilation is the key.

 

[adeechickluv]

Yes, if you have windows and ventilation it should be fine. Bedding doesn't matter as much but sand is good for hot climates i thinkk.

 

[buckaroo's wife]

Good to know. Thanks for the help