[davepitch]

We are planning to build a coop and run (approx 10' by 5') for some birds we plan to get in the spring.  I have read a number of bookos and are wondering about droppings board.  We plan to build the coop ourselves and plan to have a droppings board which is the whole area of the bottom of the coop.  ANy comments on this?  Will it be ok for the hens to walk on the thick gauge mesh all the time or will it hurt/bother their feet in th elong term?

[richyrich7]

Hi Dave I have a droppings board about 8" under the perch but thats just a solid sheet of ply and a I remove it and scrape off the poo. Not sure about the wire it may be a little harsh on their feet .

[Bodger]

Richys idea is the right one. This time of the year especially, your birds will spend the majority of their time on their perches pooping in the one spot. the use of a droppings board will make your job of cleaning out much easier. I'd perhaps make the droppings board a tad wider, so that you get the lot.