Shavings

[TXmommy]

I have a question about bedding. Most I have noticed use the pine shaving bedding. I was wondering if it is ok to use a mixture of pine, berch, and ash shavings as the bedding for my chickens. I know cedar is a no-no, but I was unsure of berch and ash.
Thanks!!

 

[Intheswamp]

Quote:
I believe it is recommended not to use softwood (the birch and ash) shavings due to the possibility of the softwood promoting mold and mildew. Check me out on that, but I believe that I'm correct.

Best wishes,
Ed

 

[patandchickens]

Birch and ash are going to be a little more mold-prone than spruce/pine/fir shavings, but you can keep it dry and keep an eye on it, no reason not to give it a go IMO.

Good luck, have fun,

Pat

 

[gsim]

Like Pat says, likely ok unless coop not well ventilated. Some say even cedar ok for adult birds as long as coop is ventilated well and round-the-clock. Another consideration is whether or not you water inside or out. Spilled water is a prime cause of mold in a coop, next to leaky structure or windows left open on wrong side of coop. Other causes can be poop not cleaned out regularly.

I use grass clippings and add a little topping every couple of months. More grass clippings in mowing weather and hay or pine needles in winter weather. All but the hay is free so naturally I like the grass clippings and pine needles best!

 

[TXmommy]

Thanks, I think I will try it. I live in Texas and it is not humidy here, so I should be ok.
Malinda