Pea Gravel in Duck Run

[Doulos]

I am trying to decide whether or not I should completely cover my duck run in pea gravel (smooth) or if I should leave a patch of dirt. The run is about 120 Sq feet, and there will be 8 ducks, with a small pool. They will be able to free range in my yard a few hours a day, when I'm at home. Have others had good luck with pea gravel? I'm concerned about bumble foot, but I read another thread where several liked it.

]

]

 

[Amiga]

I have pea gravel under the swim pans, the rest is a nice compost of duck manure and chopped straw, leaves, etc. That provides an area the ducks can hunt for worms and other things - also makes for nice nap space.

 

[Doulos]

@Amiga , right now, the pen is about 75% gravel, with a small pool. I just worry that this will be too hard on their feet.

Does anyone else use all or mostly pea gravel without problems?

 

[LovesAGoodYolk]

isn't 10x12 too small for 8 ducks?

 

[Doulos]

That should be 15 sq. feet per bird. They will be allowed outside a couple hours per day. I read anywhere from 10-25 square feet. Maybe I can add on some more later if it proves to be too small.

But do you have any thoughts on pea gravel?

 

[lomine]

I have half pea gravel half deep litter in my run. The pea gravel is nice in summer when you can spray it off easily. It's a bit of a pain in winter when it's too cold to spray down. It's nice around their "pool." I haven't had any problems with their feet. But I was in there today cleaning and thinking about expanding the deep litter part. I prefer the deep litter but it it wouldn't work around a lot of water.

 

[Doulos]

I'm glad you've had good luck with it. I will have to read into this deep litter/compost thing. Luckily, I'm pretty far south, so winters are mild and there's never more than a day or two when it doesn't get above freezing. I'm very new to all this, and it worries me every day. I have a midterm exam I should be studying for right now!