hay

[jimred]

i read somewhere that you shouldn't use hay in coops as it can give chickens some sort of disease?

is this true

Thanks
jim

[Pumpkin Becki]

Dusty hay can cause respiratory problems, but it can be said that hay or straw used in the coop and nest boxes provides a perfect habitat for the dreaded red mite (which has been particularly bad this year).

I worked for Forsham Cottage Arks and was always taught by them that wood shavings (not wood chip) is the best material to use, and then only in the nest box. You could put sheets of newspaper under the perches, which you can take out daily, screw up and put on the compost heap, but the birds certainly don't need bedding in this area.

[Bramble-Poultry]

It is ok to keep chickens on hay

the only problems that will arise are the same ones you get from straw and shavings - the dust can cause respiratory infections, mouldy hay will lead to helth problems also. they eat it, with insufficient grit it will lead to crop impaction.

But like I said they are the same problems for straw and shavings - so theres your choices!!

[Bramble-Poultry]

we use all of them and shavings are just as bad for redmite as straw and hay

[jimred]

i am only using it in the nest boxes.

why is it a good year for red mites?.

is it worth spraying with Poultry Shield after cleaning as a preventive measure?

Many Thanks

jim

[RichmondHens]

I use hay and straw in nestboxes - hay is fine as long as it is fresh, dry and mould free. Changed regularly it is no more a haven for red mite than any other bedding material. I also use hay in broody coops as I find it makes the best nests for them as it shapes better.

It's been a good year for red mite (bad for the chickens!) because of the weather conditions, but summer is always the worst time for mite anyway. This year there has been a boom in all insect populations, but on the plus side this has in turn fed millions of birds.

[Bramble-Poultry]

jimred - prevention is always better than cure!

agreed richmond - definatley the best in broody coops due to the hen being able to shape as required, also hours of endless fun for little chicks!!

I use straw inteh runs when the weather is particulary inclement, it stops the place becoming a mud bath!

[Polly Fouracre]

I use barley straw in the nest- boxes and newspaper/ shredded paper in the houses. I agree the house itself really doesn't need anything but it makes us feel cosier on wet, dark nights to think that our hens are as comfy as we can make them!