Rocks vs Dirt

[Bhendry]

Trying to decide if I should get smallish rocks to put in the run or just leave it dirt. Maybe sand? Any suggestions??

 

[Golden Brahma 64]

Trying to decide if I should get smallish rocks to put in the run or just leave it dirt. Maybe sand? Any suggestions??

First off, what poultry are you housing in the run ?
If chickens, ‘don't’ use stones.
Is there a reason in particular that you want to change the flooring on the run ?
I use bark chips, I’d leave it as dirt unless you’re having a mud problem.

 

[Bhendry]

First off, what poultry are you housing in the run ?
If chickens, ‘don't’ use stones.
Is there a reason in particular that you want to change the flooring on the run ?
I use bark chips, I’d leave it as dirt unless you’re having a mud problem.

Yes chickens. I am in south ms and it rains... A LOT!! The ground stays so damp because the run is in a shaded area. Not really muddy though.

 

[blackdog043]

Depending on your run size, I would use deep litter. With your dirt run staying damp and chickens pooping, your run will become a stinking mess. You could use sand, if you want to sift it with a cat litter scoop every day. Otherwise it will probably become smelly. I use deep litter, it works well, no bad odors and it doesn't draw flies.

 

[micstrachan]

I switched to deep litter, but probably turn it more than I’m supposed to. My girls love it. Sometimes I throw a full bag of rice hulls in and it will keep them busy for days!
I tried sand for a bit, but for me it was a sloppy mess that record breaking rain year we had in 2016-17, even when sifting turns out. I think it’s good for them to have organic matter in the run, and I spread it around my yard as sort of a natural fertilizer. Oh, and it’s better for flies, at least in my case.