Waterproof Bedding for Nesting?

[KWestVA]

I only have one hen, so I have a small coop that I keep inside my screened-in back porch to protect it from the elements. The coop itself is from a professional kit and very well-made. However, using the recycled paper bedding that worked in the brooder is problematic in the coop because it absorbs moisture even if not being rained on directly. Any recommendations for waterproof or fast-drying bedding in this situation? (Blondie leaves the coop to take care of business outdoors, so there's no need to replace the bedding frequently for cleanliness purposes).

 

[DobieLover]

The coop itself is from a professional kit and very well-made

Please post pictures. I've never heard of this before.

The only time betting would be getting wet inside a coop is because the chickens defecated on it or rain or another water source is getting to it. The first is one of the intents of bedding being in a coop. The second requires repair.

On a side note, chickens are flock animals and really should be in a flock. At least 3 birds. But only if you have proper space for them. They do not thrive as solitary animals.

 

[KWestVA]

Please post pictures. I've never heard of this before.

The only time betting would be getting wet inside a coop is because the chickens defecated on it or rain or another water source is getting to it. The first is one of the intents of bedding being in a coop. The second requires repair.

On a side note, chickens are flock animals and really should be in a flock. At least 3 birds. But only if you have proper space for them. They do not thrive as solitary animals.

Oh, there are so many aspects of my chicken situation that are suboptimal due to rookie errors - I'm just trying to eat the elephant one bite at a time! I do have a dog that is considered one of the flock, LOL!

Photo attached. The issue is I live in southern VA, so even if it's not raining, the humidity could be 110%. Also, because the coop is in a protected space, I prop open the doors and hatches to ensure proper ventilation.

 

[saysfaa]

Coffee grounds, wood shavings, grass hay, pine straw. Maybe PDZ.

These aren't really waterproof but I think they will work for you if the moisture is from humidity rather than leaks. It sounds to me like it is.

Coffee grounds can be bought already dried - somewhat similar to wood shavings. Or you might be able to use your own or get some from work places or coffee shops.

The grass hay doesn't have to be bought as hay if you have access to some soft lawn grass like kentucky blue grass or orchard grass or timothy.

Pine straw doesn't grow here so I've never touched any but I've seen descriptions of it being used on this forum by people who like it for this purpose.

You could try a mixture of these kinds of things.