Backyard Fowl Keepers

I usually buy bales of straw from a local supplier to use as bedding in my chicken coops, but hes completely out and isnt expecting any more anytime soon. With colder weather coming, I need to get something in the coop quickly, but I also dont want to spend a fortune on alternative bedding.

I was thinking about using alfalfa hay instead, but Im unsure if its a good idea. I know chickens can eat alfalfa, but would using it as bedding cause any issues? Would they eat too much of it and get sick? I have lights in the coop, and Im already feeding them a high-protein diet, but theyve still slowed down on laying.

Has anyone used alfalfa hay before? Would it work as bedding, or should I look for something else?

Any suggestions would be really appreciated!

Since alfalfa is a legume hay, it's softer than straw and doesn't hold up as well. If you don't mind changing it more frequently, it can work, but long-term, it might not be the best option.

If you're worried about cost, try contacting local tree-trimming companies for free wood chips. They take longer to break down and won't be as tempting for your chickens to eat as alfalfa.

A good alternative to straw is shredded paper or dry leaves if you have access to them. They're cheap, easy to replace, and don't cause digestive issues like eating too much alfalfa might.

If your chickens free-range, using alfalfa hay in the coop might not be a problem since they'll balance their diet with other foraged foods. But if they're confined, just monitor their intake.

I actually prefer alfalfa hay in my coop because it smells great and gives my hens something to scratch through. Just make sure to replace it regularly so it doesn't get too dusty or moldy.

If cost is a concern, you might want to check with local farms or garden centers for mulch hay,it's cheaper and works well for bedding, though it does break down faster than straw.

I've used alfalfa hay in my coop before, and while my hens loved picking through it, I found it got moldy faster than straw. If your coop is well-ventilated and stays dry, it might be okay, but keep an eye on moisture levels.

Some people swear by alfalfa for bedding, but I found it made my coop dustier than straw. If you use it, try shaking it out before putting it down to reduce the dust.

Have you thought about using pine shavings instead? They're super absorbent, last a long time, and don't encourage as much pecking as alfalfa might.