Roosting poles

[ashleyr]

What type of roosting poles should I use? I live in quite a cold climate and haven't yet added onto my coop yet (had a coop perfect for my six pullets but then got more of them ^_^ ) Any advice?

 

[Folly's place]

I have always used saplings, not peeled, 2.5" to 4" diameter. Use what you have, as long as it's wood. Mary

 

[TwistedFeathers]

I found a nice straight log/branch down the beach, about 3/4 inch in diameter. Lots of bark left on it. I just evened off any sharp bumps, and it is now THE favourite perch. Can't beat a good branch

 

[Folly's place]

Sounds good, but find a wider branch too that's too skinny, even for bantams. Mary

 

[bustedchicks]

I used redwood branches for the roosts. They vary in diameter from 1.5 inches to 3 inches. They work great but wish I used a bit thicker diameter to contour their feet better. Especially the turkeys.

 

[TwistedFeathers]

Sorry, that was meant to read 3-4, only just realised it looks like 3/4s. I promise, its nice and large and very perchable.

 

[JeanR]

Poles? Chickens do not have feet like Song birds--toes in front that curl around a branch and the back toes is reversed to hold on from the back. Chickens are like Pheasants, that are ground sleepers (although they, of course,can fly to trees.) And chickens will gladly roost in trees, too, but to make them comfortable, well balanced and keep feet warm in winter(in cold climates) their roost will be better designed--a 1x2 board.(or 1x3 for largest fowl) They can fly up without teetering for balance, can land and leave the roost board safely. In winter, they cover the feet when hunkered to sleep. A bark covered branch has great hiding places for mites, even though it is often a choice. Still, use what you like, but know that there are alternatives that can make chickens more safely roosting and comfortable.....Good luck.

 

[MamaChicken4]

I use thick branches. They love them.

 

[TwistedFeathers]

The branch i have has enough surface area they can tuck there feet under, as when i peek at them, there is not a toe to be seen. They have chosen it over a couple of other types of perch i have, a couple of rectangle boars, about 2 inches across, a plank about 3 inches wide, and a big plank that is about 3x4. Plenty of options, but they love the huge branch. It's big enough it's very nearly flat on top.