Wrapping your roost

[Sbr73]

Hi,

Does anyone wrap the 2x4 that your hens roost on so it is cushioned and they don’t get bumble foot? Maybe wrapping in flannel? Is it a good idea or not? TIA

 

[nuthatched]

Hens don't get bumble foot from their roosts, that's a common myth. Bumble foot it a small cut or sore that gets infected.

 

[Sbr73]

Hens don't get bumble foot from their roosts, that's a common myth. Bumble foot it a small cut or sore that gets infected.

Okay, that’s great to know. So, should I sand the 2x4 and round the edges?

 

[Jeanw]

Hello! I think it’s a good idea to sand the edges to get rid of the sharp angles and any splinters. I also put the 4” side facing up so their feet lay flat on the roost bar.

 

[RoosterML]

Okay, that’s great to know. So, should I sand the 2x4 and round the edges?

Yes round edges well and sand. You will be good to go

 

[aart]

Most 2x4's already have slightly rounded edges, not need to round them further.
But removing and splinters/sharp places should definitely be done.

 

[Chapel Oak Farms]

Hi,

Does anyone wrap the 2x4 that your hens roost on so it is cushioned and they don’t get bumble foot? Maybe wrapping in flannel? Is it a good idea or not? TIA

We use 2x2 and wrap them in thick twine. If you use flannel or other cloth I would imagine that it would get torn pretty quickly.

 

[Bella Dominique]

My vet suggested wrapping the roosts to help after a couple of hens got bumblefoot from hardware cloth edge that got exposed. I do sand the edges of 2x4’s. Since the pandemic the wood available isn’t as well milled as it used to be so lots of rough edges.

 

[HumbleAmerican]

My worry with roost wrapping is providing hiding spots for mites.

 

[NaperLix]

My vet told me to cover my roosts.Mine are 1”x6”,dimensions chickens pick most.
I have rubber mats,cut to fit on top,duk taped.Works great.I still bleach them,cleaned everyday,they need new tape occasionally.
My hens are seriously loved,so ,yes ,every consideration is given to their well being.No different then dog,or cats.
I have treated bummblefoot.Some go away completely,others you just manage ,so it stays small.Lots of work,bandages changed daily,weeks sometimes.
Roosts being lower,and also lower nests,helps as well.I use the heights given on this site.
18” and 15” for nests.My heavy breeds,are in no jumping smaller coops.Everything only few inches up to nest or roost.