Search found 17 matches

by DownyExplorer
Tue Mar 04, 2025 2:24 pm
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: How Big Should the Cleaning Access Be for a Small Coop?
Replies: 2
Views: 5492

Re: How Big Should the Cleaning Access Be for a Small Coop?

I've found that having one large access door for the coop floor (around 3 feet wide) and a smaller one (1x1 foot) for nesting boxes works great. Placement matters, too , put the floor door low so you can rake bedding straight out. If you can add a removable tray under the roosts, that makes cleaning ...
by DownyExplorer
Sun Mar 02, 2025 1:37 pm
Forum: Chicken Run Care & Maintenance
Topic: What plants survive inside a chicken run without getting destroyed?
Replies: 1
Views: 70935

What plants survive inside a chicken run without getting destroyed?

Hey everyone! Im trying to add a little greenery to my chicken run, but we all know how destructive chickens can be when it comes to plants. Are there any plants that can actually survive in a run without getting completely eaten or scratched to bits? Im thinking about plants that are either tough ...
by DownyExplorer
Sun Mar 02, 2025 1:33 pm
Forum: Chicken Run Care & Maintenance
Topic: Whats the best ground cover for a chicken run that stays dry and prevents mud?
Replies: 1
Views: 3268

Whats the best ground cover for a chicken run that stays dry and prevents mud?

Hey everyone,

Im looking for advice on the best ground cover for a chicken run that stays dry and helps prevent mud. Weve had a lot of rain lately, and the run is turning into a muddy mess. I want something that drains well, keeps the chickens feet dry, and helps control odor.

What materials have ...
by DownyExplorer
Sun Mar 02, 2025 1:25 pm
Forum: Chicken Run Care & Maintenance
Topic: How often do you clean your chicken run, and whats your routine?
Replies: 1
Views: 3615

How often do you clean your chicken run, and whats your routine?

Hey everyone,

Im curious how often do you all clean your chicken run, and whats your cleaning routine like? I know everyones setup and flock size is different, so Id love to hear what works for you.

Do you do quick spot cleans daily, a deep clean weekly, or something else? What kind of bedding or ...
by DownyExplorer
Wed Feb 26, 2025 9:11 am
Forum: Raising Baby Chicks
Topic: Concerned About Chick with Eyes Sealing Shut Every Morning
Replies: 13
Views: 29882

Re: Concerned About Chick with Eyes Sealing Shut Every Morning

It could be mild conjunctivitis. I'd keep treating it with warm saline and keep an eye out for worsening symptoms. If no improvement in a few days, antibiotics may be needed.
by DownyExplorer
Thu Feb 20, 2025 2:32 pm
Forum: Planning Your Coop
Topic: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?
Replies: 9
Views: 26467

Re: Best Roosting Bar Shape for Chickens?

Roost bar shape can depend on breed and personal preference. Some birds do fine on round bars, but a flat 2x4 generally provides the best support.
by DownyExplorer
Fri Feb 14, 2025 2:14 pm
Forum: Getting Started with Backyard Chickens
Topic: Best Egg-Laying Chicken? Share Your Top Pick!
Replies: 14
Views: 19450

Re: Best Egg-Laying Chicken? Share Your Top Pick!

Rhode Island Reds are hard to beat! They're consistent, hardy, and lay plenty of large brown eggs. Definitely a top contender.
by DownyExplorer
Thu Feb 13, 2025 8:30 pm
Forum: Recycling Coop Waste
Topic: Do I Need to Sift Out the Seeds when Composting Chicken Run Waste?
Replies: 234
Views: 22488

Re: Do I Need to Sift Out the Seeds when Composting Chicken Run Waste?

You don't need to sift out the seeds unless you are growing plants in the compost. If you are just using it for the garden or as mulch, the seeds will likely be broken down in the composting process. Just make sure to maintain good moisture levels and turn it occasionally to keep it active.
by DownyExplorer
Mon Feb 10, 2025 7:40 am
Forum: Success Stories
Topic: From Barren Dirt to Lush Green: How My Chickens Helped Me Transform My Lawn
Replies: 233
Views: 23920

Re: From Barren Dirt to Lush Green: How My Chickens Helped Me Transform My Lawn

This is the ultimate way to improve your lawn without chemicals. Nature knows best!
by DownyExplorer
Sat Feb 08, 2025 7:01 pm
Forum: Incubation Tips & Guidance
Topic: Did I Mess Up by Removing Eggs from My Broody Hen?
Replies: 17
Views: 12365

Re: Did I Mess Up by Removing Eggs from My Broody Hen?

I wouldn't worry too much. It's common for broody hens to get up occasionally, especially with the temperature change. As long as she continues to spend most of her time on the eggs, she should be okay.