Pine bedding for brooder

[lazy gardener]

I agree that granite is not necessary. While it may be superior in quality, most areas have hard stones available that meet the gizzard needs of a flock of birds, as long as they have access to the bare ground. I question if even when confined to a deep composting litter run that they would find adequate grit. If they can free range, they most assuredly will in most areas. I scoop washed gravel from my driveway. It is composed of varying sizes of stone, and the chicks go to town on it when ever I put it in their brooder. I see to it that they get a fresh scoop every week. I can easily increase the particle size simply be selectively choosing from my driveway.

 

[Dayrel]

You probably don't even need to be very selective. Take the lazy course.

They'll pick out the ones that they can use, just like in nature.

 

[lazy gardener]

True, that!

 

[Bluegrassmama]

I purchased chick grit from TSC today so hopefully they will not eat it and skip the food.

 

[Dayrel]

Easy peazy. Just put the grit in a separate dish and they'll figure it out.

 

[thegavulichs]

Is it ok to provide grit when we are just giving them chick starter feed? Or is grit only used when you are giving them additional things to eat?

 

[snow5164]

I believe they should have granit grit from day one , also my chicks are on paper towels or paper from day one til they start ripping it up .Then I put them on construction sand .
Eatting shavings is not good, they are digging and having fun maybe a pan of sand would interest them??

 

[Chickening101]

i think you should always provide grit, and chick grit for chicks

 

[JackNH]

My chicks did the exact same things. Just give grit (spread it all over the brooder) around 2 weeks of age. Also, provide a log for them to begin roosting on. Mine LOVED it. Then around 3-4 weeks they can have a roosting bar.