Advice requested - Chicken run under trees - on pine needles - OK?

[Chicken Little-er]

Hi, We're trying to figure out coop placement -- I have two questions: 1) One of the even spots for the coop and run is under a huge white pine tree -- so the ground is covered with lots of pine needles but not a lot of grass -- is this ok, or a space to avoid; and 2) has anyone used the larger coops on wheels (the ones that look like small sheds / houses) -- do the wheels really allow you to move it around - even uphill, if by lawn tractor? We are thinking of having the coop away from the house near the fenced garden in the summer - and then bringing it nearer the house for the winter when there's lots of snow on the ground. Thanks very much!

 

[Kudzu]

Well.... I will give this a shot..... If you are worried about the pine needles, just rig a few "chicken sandals" and I think they will be OK. As far as not deciding where to house your chickens, I suggest making a permanent coop and consider putting your abode on wheels and finding the perfect spot

 

[morelcabin]

Chickens don't need grass, mine never had any, they LOVED rummaging around under all the pine trees looking for bugs and stuff...and no, they don't need chicken sandals...

 

[krcote]

They will love pine needles! Mine do, so many yummy bugs to find!

 

[Stacykins]

I've walked across fallen pine needles in my bare feet, definitely us soft and springy usually. The chickens shouldn't have an issue at all!

 

[nuchickontheblock]

chicken sandals?? am I just dense. . . what do you mean?

 

[wingsofglory]

So their feet don't poked by the pine needles

 

[tiffanya]

My chicken run is under pine trees and the chickens do just fine! Enjoy!

 

[ErinG]

Having the run under a tree is nice for rain/sun/hawk protection as well.

 

[emsdial911]

Mine run free. We have a row of pine trees and one that stands alone in the back yard that they love to roost in the branches. If you can Incorporate the tree into your run they will love it. When they roost in the trees it's like a christmas tree decorated with chicken ornaments.