What's the right roost diameter?

[airmom1c05]

I read somewhere that a 2 inch diameter roost is right for chickens. It seems a bit large for my bantams. Is there a right size for bantams?

 

[AK-Bird-brain]

Our banty's do just fine on a closet rod (1 1/2 inch dowel).

 

[silkiechicken]

Really there is no "right size" as long as they can get their feet relatively flat on them. Chickens don't hold onto the roost like many other birds, but rather sit and balance on them. I like to use a 2x4 with the flat side up so they can sit comfortably and distribute their weight on their breast bone.

 

[airmom1c05]

Thanks. Penny seems to have no problem getting up onto the 2 inch roost by herself. Pocket has to be picked up and placed. He seems to have a slight balance problem at first, but will roost there all night. I just want them to both be comfortable. We are thinking about placing a concrete block under the roost. The roost is only 2 feet off the ground, but Pocket was caged or penned his whole life before we got him, and he doesn't seem to know he can fly. Also, he doesn't jump very high. He was the last one who learned to get back into the coop by himself and then only with the aid of the cinder block. I'm hoping the block under the roost will help him get up onto the roost by himself. I will replace that roost with a 2x4 or add a new roost in another location in the coop asap.