Poop board convert *warning-graphic/gross poop pictures*

[Alaskan]

Oh, I didn't add that this summer was the first time that I have ever used poop trays and the first time that I have ever used PDZ.

TOTAL fanatical convert! WHOOP!

It took me a while before I figured out how to make the poop trays. That PDZ oozes and trickles out of even the smallest gap or hole.

I finally figured it out:

1. I use a junk pile plywood or OSB board,

2. rim it with thin anything scrap on three sides,

3. but on the third side use a 2x4 since that is thick enough to screw the plywood to, give rigidity and pull out any warp from the plywood

4. Saw off one top edge of the top of the 2x4 so that the top edge is no longer perch-like and is now uncomfortable so they don't sleep on it

5. caulk all holes in plywood and any gaps between board, attach it where you want it

 

[mbcmama]

That's true! I have been blocking it off during the day when the door is open and they are out and about. My one who is not molting and on strike right now decided to lay NEXT to the nesting boxes now! I guess she just doesn't like them lol!!! Now if I could just get the other two that are old enough to lay off their strike and laying again! I'm out of eggs and don't want to buy any!!!

 

[Missa Chickabee]

It's so much fun to keep checking into this thread and see how folks are catching on to the great ideas here. Now I just can't imagine life without zeolite poop boards! LOL Only chicken people would understand that.

To keep the granules from running out between the cracks I put some strong but cushy linoleum down on the base of the box before setting the 2 X 4 sides on top of it. Screwed down tight it seals it pretty well.

Hurrah for PDZ POOP BOARDS!

 

[Alaskan]

I was worried that 2x4 on all sides would be so wide as to catch stray poop or what not.

I used a1x4 on the back long side, scrap whatevers on the two short sides and then a 2x4 only on the front side, with the edge beveled.

Actually, my tray number three doesn't have the edge beveled.

So the chickens perch on the perch AND on the tray edge, but the ones perching on the edge always perch with their beaks facing out, so all of the poop stays in the tray.

 

[Missa Chickabee]

Just popping into one of my favorite threads. (I think about this thread every day as I scoop the poop in the coop every morning) This morning a thought occurred to me that I don't remember hearing a comment about: Does anyone think that the PDZ or other zeolite product under the roost might inhibit the infestation of mites? Just a thought.

 

[Primo]

Started another thread a few days ago but thought I would share this here.

"Thought I would share this as it has just made my life that much easier

. My original board consisted of 13" wide piece of plywood framed around with 2X2 so I could fill with litter. This did not work so well as it was a pain to clean. I read on here about using sand but didn't see myself scooping and sifting sand everyday. I bought a sheet of 4 foot by 32" white gloss hardboard panel at lowes. It is brown on one side and glossy smooth white on the other (think it is used for bathroom paneling) I ripped it in half on my table saw and ended up with two pieces 48" x 16". I laid these on top of the old poop board. The surface is so slick the poop does not stick to it. I scrape it off with a 5" wide plastic putty knife (so as not to scratch the finish) and into a bucket. I can scrape both boards clean in less than a minute. The sheet was only $11. Sorry no pic, I will try and get one in a day or two."

After using this for a week I am very happy with it. The poop just slides right off and does not smear or stick. Time will tell if the finish holds up, but will be cheap enough if I have to replace once a year.

 

[chynasparks]

I think it might help control mites and bugs. If the odors are controlled then there is less likely to be bugs. Maybe? I don't really know. I just know I've not had mites or bugs in the poop board. I use PDZ and I'm also mixing in DE. Maybe that's the real reason.

 

[amenfarm]

I've been using the zeolite for 18 months now, no problems with bugs, mites etc.

 

[Hokum Coco]

Oh I might add I do have poop boards 3½" below roost 2x4 wide side up held in cups pops out for easy cleaning every 2 to 3 days.

POOP BOARDS are the "BEST" addition yet. Handles well over ½ of the poop in my set up keeps ammonia smell in check 3½" below roost excellent for catching eggs laid through the night. I recently friction fit a piece of vinyl flooring over my poop board.it makes clean up even easier; Pop out; Scrap; Hose; Pop in.

In my nest boxes I fold a feed bag to fit (nest boxes are 1 ft³). When a bag gets soiled; fold a new one; pop out the soiled; pop in the new.

Easy peasy!.

Chicken coop is salvaged 4x8 metal shed.
My eggs are very clean except for the occasional poop board egg.
My coop is not immaculate but it is clean by chicken coop standards .

 

[newpioneer75]

I have been sprinkling some wood shavings on the poop board to keep from sticking to it but now i think i will try some PDZ. Going to do some winterizing in the next few weeks . Improving poop board was on the list. Have 1 girl who only lays eggs on the roost. lost a few by falling all the way to the floor. bummer