Run area: dirt, hay or grass?

[kmpage28]

Our chickies have a mixed fenced run area off their coop. The fenced area is dirt (they do like taking dirt baths). Would it be best to a) leave it as is b) put some hay down c) put sod/grass down? What is best for them?

 

[Chicken Girl1]

I would put something down for them, hay or sod grass, you could live it as it is but it may get pretty muddy when it rains and if there is nothing for bugs to hid under they may not come.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

How large is the area and how many birds are in it? What's your climate like - specifically is it a typically dry or typically wet area that you live in?

 

[Percheron chick]

Trying to put down sod or grass would be a huge waste of time and money.

 

[henless]

My run was grass, until the chickens arrived. Now it's all dirt.

I deep litter in the coop and in the run. Fall leaves, pine straw, wood chips, garden leftovers & some house scraps all go in the coop or run. It gives them something to dig in and gives bugs something to hide under. At least until the chickens find them!

 

[Folly's place]

If your run is big enough, a shrub or two would be nice. And shavings, leaves, whatever as litter. They will turn it into mulch. Grass is hopeless in a confined space with chickens. Mary