swimming pool for hens

[NiceHens]

To give my six hens a chance to cool off in hot weather, I purchased a small plastic swimming pool (think of one for babies and toddlers), and filled it with about six inches of water. I also placed it on a wood pallet so it would be something for them to do - jump up and into the pool.

Well, they never touched it.

Should I have left it flat on the ground? Was six inches too much water and it should be maybe just an inch or two for them to dab their feet (claws) in?

NiceHens/Erika in Northern Colorado

 

[Judy]

I think chickens tend to avoid water. Mine would never step into a similar setup. Chickens will paddle around deeper water until their feathers get saturated, then the weight drags them under and they drown. So I suppose it is instinctive for them to avoid bodies of water.

 

[nuyoricanchick]

I put a large potting drip pan and fill it with ice. When it melts it is about 1/12 inches deep. They love to step in it when it is very hot. My e the wTer is too deep for them