To litter or not to litter? That is the question.

[beana1225]

I have two sets of chickens. Some in a small tractor that free range during the day. And then a bunch more in a regular dirt floor coop and run. My question is this.... Do you put down anything on the coop and run floor. And if yes? Which one or both? I have had no problems with the chickens on the plain old dirt. But know that most people suggest some kind of covering. I honestly believe that it is just something else to bring in lice, mites, rats, mice, snakes, etc..... into the coop. We live in Georgia and do not have a problem with the ground staying wet or damp. What is the true benefit of putting something down?

 

[AhyokaAcres]

I use just plain shavings right now (pine ONLY) but will be using the deep litter method in the new shed.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/...e-easiest-way-to-deal-with-chicken-litter-dlm

 

[chfite]

My soil drains well. I use dirt in the run. If moisture starts to be a problem, I would add a few inches of sand to open the soil and improve its permeability.

Chris