Bedding in the coop or no need for it?

They should be ok but just to clarify where abouts are you?

I have always used a a recycling bag or similar on the very bottom (to stop the moisture getting to the wooden floor), then a layer or 2 of newspaper, then some straw and then a good sprinkling of woodshavings on top but am now questioning if this is strictly necessary.

Hens should perch at night so providing this is the case then a layer of woodshavings over some paper will probably suffice. I think I will save the straw for the nest box (which they are not using at the moment but that is another story)!

They all perch at night and below is the tray where the droppings b.. I use saw dust so its easy to clean the watery droppings esp. I tried using shredded paper but they pull it out when they lay. I don't use too many things as i pull the tray out twice a week and bin everything on the tray so most of it will b wasted. If i use straw does it absorb the dampness by watery droppings etc? Is it better than saw dust.

I am in derby (midlands)

I found that straw matts up quicker than shavings.  Never used sawdust in case of respiratory problems

Hi, I use a thick layer of wood shavings with straw on the top in winter in my coop.
I find this method during the winter months works best,as it seems to keep their feet clean and in good order as well. The down side is, it makes it a bit more difficult to clean out so I replace everthing every 3 days. I agree with other members,sawdust is a no-no..
Aden...

I reccomend Hemp Bed-E for bedding. It works really well and has a nice minty smel.
Weasel and The Chooks