Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Poultry and Pets => The Hen House => Topic started by: Geo on July 31, 2015, 19:56

Title: Bedding for chicks?
Post by: Geo on July 31, 2015, 19:56

I have a RIR sitting on 4 fertile eggs due to hatch Sunday or Monday, she is currently sitting on a nest of straw.
This is the first time trying to hatch chicks and would appreciate advice on suitable bedding. I have straw and Aubiose (spelling) available. I will be keeping them in a dog crate in the shed.

Title: Re: Bedding for chicks?
Post by: GrannieAnnie on July 31, 2015, 22:25

I don't like using straw for chooks at all.  There is a risk of mites getting into the hollow straw and mould growinf if it every gets damp.

I never had a broody, but our chicks went onto shavings after a few days.  They do try to eat it a little bit, but soon stop as it doesn't taste very nice! lol

Title: Re: Bedding for chicks?
Post by: Geo on August 01, 2015, 09:23

Thanks Grannie. I will get shavings today. will compost the straw. thanks Geo

Title: Re: Bedding for chicks?
Post by: Sassy on August 01, 2015, 17:05

I use kitchen towel initially and this also helps if they may be on a slippery surface. It also makes cleaning up easy. Then use shavings after a few days.  :D

Title: Re: Bedding for chicks?
Post by: Geo on August 01, 2015, 19:38

I bought a bale of shavings today and will remove the straw.
Will it be ok to lift the hens off the eggs to change over to the shavings? and then resit her back on or should I now wait till they hatch.

Title: Re: Bedding for chicks?
Post by: feelingbroody on August 05, 2015, 18:09

I used deep shavings initially it's really warm and soft for them - I've seen bliss ( horse bedding ) used too - I agree straw isn't the best for chicks