Using sand for coops.

[Paula1956]

Thinking about using sand in my coops. Any thoughts or suggestions? Thank you in advance.

 

[Paula1956]

Just read some relevant posts from the past. I think I'll pass on the sand idea. Thanks.

 

[SueT]

I use sweet PDZ on the floors in my smaller coops and on the poop boards. It is a mineral that resembles sand, but it absorbs odors plus moisture. I use a cat litter scoop to sift out the poop. So what I put in there lasts and lasts. I get it at TSC, it’s in the horse aisle.

 

[Faithful flock]

I don't like using sand in the coop. The chickens eat it and it can cause them to have impacted crops. I use pine shavings in the coop and that has been my favorite so far!

As for the run I made a whole separate discussion thread where many people shared there favorite bedding!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/are-pine-shavings-necessary-in-the-run.1547071/

Hope this helps!

 

[nuthatched]

I don't like using sand in the coop. The chickens eat it and it can cause them to have impacted crops. I use pine shavings in the coop and that has been my favorite so far!

As for the run I made a whole separate discussion thread where many people shared there favorite bedding!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/are-pine-shavings-necessary-in-the-run.1547071/

Hope this helps!

Actually, pine shaving are more likely cause impacted crop, sand passes through. They actually need it for their gizzards and if they're trying to eat it, there might be other issues. :]

 

[Faithful flock]

Actually, pine shaving are more likely cause impacted crop, sand passes through. They actually need it for their gizzards and if they're trying to eat it, there might be other issues. :]

My birds don't eat the shavings though. Unlike the sand. So far I have not had any issues. They don't need sand for there gizzards they need grit wich is different. Small shavings are a big no no but the flakes that I use seem to be the best option for me and my location.

 

[3KillerBs]

I have never tried sand because the idea of having to scoop poop daily horrifies me.

What I've read from others' experience here suggests that those people who are happy with sand in their coops over the long term live in dry climates.

 

[RDchicken99]

Hi @Paula1956!
I would advise you add where you live to your profile so the peeps on here can offer more specific advice! As @3KillerBs said, sand works much better in dry climates.
You can add your location by going to your account details, and scrolling to here.

 

[TheOddOneOut]

My birds don't eat the shavings though. Unlike the sand. So far I have not had any issues. They don't need sand for there gizzards they need grit wich is different. Small shavings are a big no no but the flakes that I use seem to be the best option for me and my location.

Were the italics an accident?