What is your opinion on sand vs litter?

[mire0042]

I have a raised coop, 6x6 with slant roof. Will have 8 chickens in coop. Plan on building a large run off of coop. I live in Louisiana so lots of heat and humidity. What would you recommend to use in coop and run, construction sand? Litter? And if litter, what type? Thanks in advance for all replies!

 

[HighStreetCoop]

Sand can get hot in the sun. I'd rather have them on bare dirt.

 

[mire0042]

Sand can get hot in the sun. I'd rather have them on bare dirt.

So no sand in the run. What would you recommend for inside the coop? I have 3/4 in plywood as base of floor.

 

[Hokum Coco]

What would you recommend to use in coop and run, construction sand? Litter?

Every coop is not exactly the same geography, climate, size and number of birds are just a few deciding factors. I suggest try both and go with what works in your situation.

 

[HighStreetCoop]

Quote:
Really depends on what is available to you. I personally use rice hulls. They're dry and light and don't compact like wood chips can.

 

[mire0042]

Really depends on what is available to you. I personally use rice hulls. They're dry and light and don't compact like wood chips can.

Never thought of rice hulls...where do you purchase them at?

 

[HighStreetCoop]

Quote:
Local feed store. $8 for a 50lb bag. In my little coop (6'x4') a bag lasts 3 months doing full changes every other week and there's never ANY smell. I know they grow rice in Louisiana, so I bet it's available there, too.

 

[mire0042]

Local feed store. $8 for a 50lb bag. In my little coop (6'x4')  a bag lasts 3 months doing full changes every other week and there's never ANY smell. I know they grow rice in Louisiana, so I bet it's available there, too.

I am sure it should be available here also. I will check around at the local feed stores. Thanks for the info!