Planning out my WIR. What toys/things to include

I saw a log attached to the top of the run, suspended as a swing.




I am going to stack some cement blocks so they can climb and file their nails a bit.

Question: is there a specific reason for your door to swing in?
We are "under construction" and my DH asked how I wanted the door to swing -shrugs-

 

Wow- what a great idea to suspend a log from the top!

 

Unless you are in the desert southwest, forget the mister. In areas where the humidity stays above 40% the mister does more harm than good (wet litter, floors etc.) as the mist does not evaporate quickly. Doesn't do much to cool the
chickens either, as the mist just gets on the outer layer of their feathers which act as a little raincoat.

Chickens love to scratch in dirt. One good idea that is often overlooked is just to turn over some dirt with a shovel in the run. You will be surprised at how long they will dig around in that dirt. Keeps 'em occupied. Also stirs up the litter,
kind of making their own compost.

The concrete block idea is good too. Something for them to climb on and explore. Some branches for them to climb on. I have put a container of dirt (about 4" deep) in their coop so that they can get dirt baths when they are in there
for any period of time.

Swing the door out. It won't scatter chickens every time it is opened and gives you more usable inside area. As an aside, I made my door a dutch door where I can just open the top half to scatter treats, etc.

 

To keep 'em cool, just dig a hole and let them dust bathe in the cool dirt!

Mine LOVE dustbathing in the little holes I've dug all around the yard (under trees and near the wall of the house especially).

 

I *love* that run in the pictures!

My girls love it if I hang something up high, like a cabbage, and they have to fly up to peck at it.

 

I keep a cement block, a large baking pan of water for them to stand in, and a full length mirror (my roo is vain ) in the run. I would have roosts but I have escape artists. They have an area for dustbathing and grass to pick through.

 

Quote:When I saw this I had to remind myself that envy is one of the 7 deadly sins This is beautiful!!!