Varied chicken keepers have different ideas on what bedding to use in their chicken coop. As a newbie, you may find it extremely tricky to decide the right one for your chicken. Bedding plays a crucial role in chicken health and comfort. The right chicken bedding might encourage your hens to lay eggs as well. Therefore, we are here to help you settle on the proper type of chicken bedding.
Pine Shavings/wood Chips
Sand
Poultry owners commonly use sand as chicken bedding. It's incredibly absorbent and aids with odor control in the chicken coop. It helps to dry out the chicken feces, making it easier to view and remove the droppings. Sand also serves as a dust bath, which chickens adore! Cleaning excrement clumps with a snow shovel is simple. It is important to note that it is dusty, which is unhealthy for the respiratory system of hens.
Straw
Because straw is widely available and inexpensive in most places, many chicken owners opt to utilize it. Straw acts as an insulator in the winter, therefore people living in cold climates might consider it. Chickens enjoy scratching in the straw which adds to their enjoyment. It is, however, ineffective in odor management and necessitates frequent bedding changes to avoid respiratory diseases in chickens.
Grass clippings
If you're looking for a free option, grass clippings are an excellent idea. They are all-natural bedding that can keep chickens entertained and occupied for days while they hunt for seeds and bugs. They also help to reduce odors and are an excellent way to compost. However, it must be replaced regularly because it rots rapidly and quickly. Make certain that no insecticides are sprayed on the grass clippings.
Each type of bedding has advantages and disadvantages for your consideration, and you can make a decision based on the needs of your flock. Whatever chicken bedding you choose, your flock's health and happiness should be your top focus.
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