Wood chips in run ... are they safe?

[Rick&Chris]

We recently added untreated/raw hard wood chips that we got from our landscaper neighbor in our covered run. Not sure what the trees are, however I know they are not Cedar.

I just read on another page that I should be concerned about the bark from the wood chips breaking down and causing aspergillus?? They are only used in the covered run, not in the enclosed coop area. Pics attached of our run with the chips.

Is this ok or should I remove them?

 

[CCUK]

We recently added untreated/raw wood chips that we got from our landscaper neighbor in our covered run. Not sure what the trees are, however I know they are not Cedar.

I just read on another page that I should be concerned about the bark from the wood chips breaking down and causing aspergillus?? They are only used in the covered run, not in the enclosed coop area. Pics attached of our run with the chips.

Is this ok or should I remove them?

I use wood chips in my run. Inside and out. I've not had any problems. So long as they're seasoned and not freshly chipped you should be OK. They will probably need replacing after 12-18 months though.

 

[Rick&Chris]

I use wood chips in my run. Inside and out. I've not had any problems. So long as they're seasoned and not freshly chipped you should be OK. They will probably need replacing after 12-18 months though.

They are fresh and not seasoned ... What is the reason to have them seasoned? Should I remove them?

 

[CCUK]

They are fresh and not seasoned ... What is the reason to have them seasoned? Should I remove them?

It more to do with the natural oils in it. Some, like cedar can cause respiratory problems.

 

[Rick&Chris]

It more to do with the natural oils in it. Some, like cedar can cause respiratory problems.

Thanks - I made sure that we did not get cedar.

 

[CCUK]

Thanks - I made sure that we did not get cedar.

I'd rake it through a couple of times a week for a couple of weeks. Make sure it's not too deep or mould can start. If the run isn't completely enclosed you should be fine.

 

[Melky]

I use pine small chunk wood chips with peat mixed in. Peat is better at reducing ammonia in manure. Mine do fine. I use straw in winter for heat. Keep clean and dry will be fine.

 

[IdyllwildAcres]

Nice coop

Gary

 

[staceyj]

Just do periodic foot checks for bumblefoot.

Beautiful coop. Lovely setting.

 

[Melky]

Nice coop

Gary

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