Perfect environment for chickens...

[Daws]

Hello,
I am hoping to get some advice on the perfect environment for chickens.. Basically, we have made a large pen (50x50meters) for our chickens and runner ducks to roam in, though when we are outside with them we shall let them wander around the whole smallholding. We only have 4 hens and 3 ducks for the time being, and have already got a good size pond for the ducks (which we will raise up so the chickens aren't tempted to drown in it) but I am wondering, could any one recommend a small tree which chickens like? That they may climb up and enjoy? And also shrubbery they will like which they won't destroy? And any other advice of things we can put in the space which will make them happy and look pretty? Thank you!

 

[whitlockj85]

Way back when, chickens were jungle birds before they were domesticated. They will roost in the trees if they are on their own. I would look for somethink long with good size branches to support them. My mom used to tell me about her grandfather's chickens. He didn't have a coop, but only nesting boxes. At night they would roost in the trees. As far as chickens and shrubbery, I haven't a clue.