Corn Starch Dust Bath?

[gr8expectations]

It's cheep, fine, non-toxic, and dusty... Does anyone know of any reason I can't add it to a mixture of compost and sand for a home-made dust bath in my chicken tractor?

 

[JennsPeeps]

A better question would be why would you?

I don't see any benefit of corn starch unless you're trying to thicken them.

 

[fullhouse]

I would think it getting it wet could be sticky and stinky.

 

[EweSheep]

Unless you are planning on frying them!

 

[Tuffoldhen]

Or making gravy

 

[Three Cedars Silkies]

I don't see why it wouldn't be fine to add. There certainly isn't anything harmful in it. BTW...welcome to BYC.

The post above were just meant to be funny...I'm sure no one was being offensive about your question.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

It would be bad when it got wet, either in the dustbath or on the chicken. Very creative idea, though!

I would go with something more inert, that no bacteria or mold would ever feed on when wet. Something that wouldn't get so gloopy when wet, either. Sand, fine dirt, a small amount or wood ash or DE added in, are all good choices to mix up in a dust bath.

 

[Lanissa86]

I heard Charcoal after a B-B-Q is also good! Or soot from the chimney, has anyone found this too be true? Heard it controls mites as well...

 

[sunnydee]

I cant imagine putting charcoal for my birds to dust themselves in? But then again, I am a newbie myself. Cant wait to see what ppl say?

 

[JennsPeeps]

Quote:
Blackened chicken...

(feeling like a bit of a smart aleck today...)