Roost question

[Mskayladog]

Can we use old wooden broom handles and shovel handles as roost? We have a bunch and was thinking of using them.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

They would work but something bigger would be better unless all your birds are Bantams

 

[I Heart Chicks]

I am using something similar and the hens have no problem with it. I think broom handles would be perfect! If it is too slippery for them take some coarse sandpaper to them, that aught to do it! Good luck!

Also, please note, that my birds are all bantams

 

[Judy]

Chicken's feet don't curl around a roost as well as many birds do. Particularly large fowl are often more comfortable with the wide side of a 2x4 or a thicker tree branch. I've never had bantams, though.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Thus us how mine arranged themselves one night last year. I give them the option.





I'm not as convinced as some people that chickens' feet don't curl all that well, but I agree that a little bigger is better. I'd be uncomforable using broom handles and I'd have to see the shovel handles before I decided on them.

 

[Mskayladog]

Went out in the field with a handsaw and chopped a good size sapling down to use I will post pictures later.

 

[acemario]

From what I know, if your area experiences cold weather, it would be best to make a wider roost. The reason behind this is that if the roost is wider, they are able to "sit" on their feet, preventing frostbite. If the roost is skinnier, it is more difficult for the chickens to keep their feet warm.