Dusty chicken run solutions

[ckeene1990]

I have a permanent run, now all the grass is gone and it is quite dusty. I have read that sand or mulch are good options. I can’t seem to find course sand that is non silica. Any recommendations on what to do with my run?

 

[Debbie292d]

Since it's covered and won't get too muddy, what about some plain black dirt? Chickens rather have dirt to scratch around and dust bathe in.

We had put sand in a huge plastic turtle thinking they'd like that instead of our flower beds, and they didn't touch it. Our huge breeding pen got that way too, and we just used dirt from the garden.

 

[ckeene1990]

Since it's covered and won't get too muddy, what about some plain black dirt? Chickens rather have dirt to scratch around and dust bathe in.

We had put sand in a huge plastic turtle thinking they'd like that instead of our flower beds, and they didn't touch it. Our huge breeding pen got that way too, and we just used dirt from the garden.

That’s what it is now is dirt, but it is very dry and dusty. I’m concerned that the dust is not good for them to breathe in.

 

[Debbie292d]

That’s what it is now is dirt, but it is very dry and dusty. I’m concerned that the dust is not good for them to breathe in.

Your dirt, and our former dirt in the pen has changed from whence it was newer. It's just the quality of the dirt. Chickens just naturally dust bathe and are fine. We just have tried sand twice and it didn't work or go over well, but maybe for you it would.

 

[StinkyAcres]

Why change it? Chickens love dusty dirt and a lot of us chicken keepers can only wish to have a dry dirt run.

 

[aart]

I have a permanent run, now all the grass is gone and it is quite dusty. I have read that sand or mulch are good options. I can’t seem to find course sand that is non silica. Any recommendations on what to do with my run?

I'd have less concern about a 'dusty' run than snow load on that fragile run roof.

I use coarse wood chippings from a tree trimmer, absorbs excess water and helps break down the poops so no stink.

 

[ckeene1990]

Why change it? Chickens love dusty dirt and a lot of us chicken keepers can only wish to have a dry dirt run.

I was just concerned about them breathing in the dust. I’m a first time chicken owner.