Pea Gravel in my Chicken Run OK?

[iwannagofishin]

I've been lurking and reading for about 3 weeks. And I have three 4-week old chicks in the garage. Coop is built and they're moving in tomorrow. (and out of my garage )

Part of their run used to be a patio extension that had been made with paving stones. So there is lots of left over pea gravel just below the surface of the ground. (about 2 inches below the surface) I'm worried about the birds swallowing the gravel. Is this a valid concern?

Thanks for the patience with my rookie question.

KP

 

[Nicole01]

I personally wouldn't. I've had a hen crack her beak right down the center on a rock along side the house. Luckily i was able to clip and file it down and it grew back.

They also can choke, but I'm not quite sure if they would try and swallow rocks too big.

I really like sand. It's very easy to clean.

 

[iwannagofishin]

I personally wouldn't. I've had a hen crack her beak right down the center on a rock along side the house. Luckily i was able to clip and file it down and it grew back.
They also can choke, but I'm not quite sure if they would try and swallow rocks too big.
I really like sand. It's very easy to clean.

I hadn't thought about their beaks breaking. I was mainly concerned about them swallowing them. I've watched them enough to know that they'll eat anything.

 

[Aeropennchick]

Hello and welcome!

I can't say I share the concern about the gravel being dangerous. When chicks free range in a yard, there are plenty of things that are too big for them to eat, and if they manage to get it down it will most likely pass out the other end.