hmmm, sand. I'd never thought of it. I live right near a beach too so I can get as much as i want. I am going to have to try this out! I might start using it in the coop too! although I do like that with the wood shavings it makes composting a breeze Thanks for the tip, can't wait to give it a try!
I hope your beach is fresh water, not salt. Sand is great for composting, too. When you use sand in the coop you just scoop the poop so there's very little waste. Some will stick to the poo of course, so just supplement the sand as needed. It's a lot less expensive than shavings, too, and won't ever rot. We just got a pickup truck load for $7.50. Any extra gets stored or added to the garden or flower beds. Love it!