Part of Run on Brick Paving Stones?

[SuburbanFarmstress]

I was wondering if it would be a problem if I set my run up so that part of it is over these paving stones:

The run will be 10'x10', and the section with the pavers will be about 3'x10' of that. They aren't solid brick- the open spaces have dirt in them. There are also a couple of spots where there are two largish solid brick pavers next to each other, about 18"x18". I just don't know if they will hurt their beaks on them pecking, or if they could cause any other problems.

Thanks for the assistance!

 

[gryeyes]

They won't hurt their beaks. They will, however, dig out the soil in those spaces.

 

[patandchickens]

You can do it but will want to cover that with at least 4-6" (ideally more) of something like sand or roadbase (if moisture is an issue) or mulch or safe tree chippings (if you live in a dry climate). Otherwise not only will the chickens be frustrated by not being able to scratch and dig very well, they may hurt their feet (->bumblefoot infection) *trying* to scratch in those slots within the pavers.

One advantage would be that, altho rats and mice could still dig in b/c of the holes in the pavers, you would probalby not have to worry about digproofing that part of the run. Those pavers look well-set and been there long enough to have sort of 'grown into' the ground, so I don't think much in the way of larger animals is going to budge 'em

Good luck, have fun,

Pat

 

[lebentier]

part of my run is over pavers. i just keep hay thrown over it.