I am wondering how wide a board to put up for there roost? I have 2x4s 2x3s available. And How wide should the roost be 2, 3 or 4 inches? Thanks
From what I've read a 2x4 would probably be best. Gives them enough room to flatten their feet out so when they squat down, they keep their feet warm . So it helps to not get frostbite.
Personally I think this issue is overthought. My chickens have both tree branches and 2*4s and they prefer the branches. Nothing is caste in stone. Ct
We use a 2x4, wide side up for their roost. We also have a 1x4, wide side up for the perch outside the nest boxes.
I have 2x4s wide side up for my girls and they all look comfortable, even the bantam. They shuffle forward so that their toes curl over the front of the roost while they sleep, and the rest of their foot is supported. Their toes are covered by their breast feathers, and in colder weather they sometimes shuffle back and sleep on their toes.
My chickens won't roost on 2x4 if the 4 is up, only if the 2 is up, I think it's probably more about what they are used to.
