Sawdust in coops

[Newfarmer36]

I just found out about a mill that I can go to to get free sawdust. Some people say to put that in my coop and chickens and ducks will love it. Others say not to do that. What's y'alls opinions? Thanks

 

[PirateGirl]

I get free sawdust/shavings from my friend's sawmill regularly and it's pretty much all I use for bedding. You just want to be sure they are only processing raw lumber. It can't be from anything that's been pressure treated or lacquered/stained in any way because that could be toxic. I go with a bag or tote and shovel it myself. His mill is outdoors, I try and go when it's been dry out for awhile so I don't get wet mucky shavings.

 

[SueT]

We use hardwood shavings from our wood shop. It has worked fine for years.

 

[NoNameHomestead]

I haven’t used sawdust in my coop, but I do use pine shavings. I’ve heard mixed feelings on using sawdust for different reasons. I’m curious to what others have to say.

 

[PirateGirl]

Have you seen it yet? How thick or fine the sawdust/shavings are may factor into how well they will work for you. You can always get a trash bag full and try it and if it doesn't work out, move on, and try something else.

 

[Newfarmer36]

Have you seen it yet? How thick or fine the sawdust/shavings are may factor into how well they will work for you. You can always get a trash bag full and try it and if it doesn't work out, move on, and try something else.

I haven't. I need to go check it out.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Really depends on what woods are used and how coarse/fine it is. You don't want anything superfine as the particles aren't good for you or the chickens to be inhaling.