Roosting poles for heavy breed chickens?

[DroolieChick]

We're re-purposing a building as a coop for 36 heavy breed chickens (Orpingtons, Rhode Island Reds, Australorps, Wyandottes and Barred Rocks). I've read that roosting poles should be anywhere from 2" poles to 2x4's with the 4" side up. I assume that the weight of the chickens would be a factor to consider. With the heavier breeds do they need the support of a 2x4? Can you use treated lumber for the roosts? How about treated lumber for the nesting boxes?

Thanks, Sue

 

[JackE]

I use 2X4s, wide side up. I have them setting in notches, so they are easily removed for coop cleaning. Others use smaller wood, and some even use tree branches. I guess there is no HAVE TO way, it's just whatever works out best for you. I used dimensional lumber because it is straight and easy to work with. I've seen 15 standard size hens roost on one 8' long board, so I guess a 2X4 is strong enough. I would not use treated lumber inside a coop. One, it's unnecessary, as there is no ground contact to worry about. And it would not be good, if somehow a chicken (Or you) were to get a splinter from it, as remote as that possibility is.
Jack

 

[BGMatt]

I always use PVC pipe. Anything 1" and over should work depending on length. Weight matters a bit, if your birds are coming from a breeder (hatchery birds, even "heavy" breeds tends to be significantly smaller than advertised) then you might want to use 2" and place them a little lower than you would otherwise, but I've used 1" pvc (in 4' lengths) for everything except 13+ pound Jersey Giants (had Rocks and Brahmas that big too but they might have been a bit oversize...)