Dowels for Roosting?

[chickylou]

I've noticed that many build their coops with either a long narrow branch or 2x4s. The books I've read mention that they should have rounded perches. What is the best?
I've considered dowels or 2 inch curtain rods.

Any thoughts? Reasons I need to know.

Thanks in Advance

 

[B. Saffles Farms]

In colder climates Ive heard its better to have a flat roost so they can cover their feet, to keep from getting frostbite as easy. Personally, Ive used rounded roosts, 2x2s, and 2x4s, and havent noticed any difference at all.

ETA: Use wooden roosts, not metal, or plastic.

 

[BrackenFarms]

bsaffles has a point about the cold weather but in sc im lucky and dont really have to worry about that so
i use real authentic genuine tree branches i mean thats what they would be using if they were not in my coop and run right? i am presently using mountain laurel branches because of there durability and traction and they look cool...

 

[Sunny Side Up]

I use tree branches too. Cheap is good but free is better.

 

[allisojo]

I have dowels and flat boards (2" and 3") and they like the flat boards. I'm in New Mexico, and they sleep inside and they choose the flat boards nonetheless. I think they just develop a preference based on location and habit. Just my opinion, though.

 

[minifarm8]

I built them a roost with tree limbs but they prefer the 2x4 framing.
Go figure.

 

[ssteiner]

I have 3/4" dowels and the girls love them...

 

[PortageGirl]

2x4s wide side up so they can squat over their feet to keep them warmer seem preferred by the hens. you can get the really warped ones really cheep, I mean cheap.

I also have some nice fat brances, fatter than you think they would use... hehe, they like those too, and I live in a wooded area so I can replace them easily since they're harder to clean properly.

 

[waynesgarden]

I used a length of round stair hand rail since I had it laying around the barn. Haven't had any complaints from the birds about their feet getting cold at thirty below.

Wayne

 

[B. Saffles Farms]

Quote:
Thanks for sharing that, now I know Ill never have to worry about my chickens feet getting cold. It rarely gets down to single digits here.