Pullets eating wood shavings.

[skyefry]

Hello! I finally moved my older chicks/pullets outside in the coop. I have pine shavings in the coop and they seem to be eating them. I’ve never had any problem with other chickens doing this and it’s freaking me out I don’t want them to get sick. Any suggestions or what other bedding would be better??

Thanks!

 

[skyefry]

Hello! I finally moved my older chicks/pullets outside in the coop. I have pine shavings in the coop and they seem to be eating them. I’ve never had any problem with other chickens doing this and it’s freaking me out I don’t want them to get sick. Any suggestions or what other bedding would be better??

I’m considering getting sand for inside the coop and run. What kind works good?? Please help!

Thanks!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

It can be common for chickens to pick through bedding and eat little pieces.

Make sure that they have poultry grit (crushed granite) free choice, fresh feed and water available during waking hours.

 

[skyefry]

It can be common for chickens to pick through bedding and eat little pieces.

Make sure that they have poultry grit (crushed granite) free choice, fresh feed and water available during waking hours.

it’s still normal if this is what they did for 3 hours? i’m just worried they might get sick. they do have full access to clean water with ACV, grit and feed! as well as some scratching treats.

 

[rosemarythyme]

If they've never been exposed to the shavings before it's normal for them to explore it by putting it in their mouths and eating some. As long as they have grit available, and aren't eating copious amounts, I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[skyefry]

If they've never been exposed to the shavings before it's normal for them to explore it by putting it in their mouths and eating some. As long as they have grit available, and aren't eating copious amounts, I wouldn't worry about it.

thank you! this is their first time being really exposed to it. i’m hoping with time they will get less excited with it and ignore it.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

it’s still normal if this is what they did for 3 hours? i’m just worried they might get sick. they do have full access to clean water with ACV, grit and feed! as well as some scratching treats.

Likely they just explored the shavings for that period of time. I don't think they would consume very much.

 

[aart]

they do have full access to clean water with ACV,

Water with ACV is not 'clean'.
Make sure you offer plain water along with, or instead of, the AVC water.