We are getting some chickens. We are looking at starting with 3 or 4 hens. The chicken house/run we have got is plenty big enough for 6 - 8 but don't want to be too ambitious! May add some Bantams to the group at a later date, I think that is okay, isn't it?
Have tried to look up how to keep the hen house clean.
I think I have picked up that I would need to change the nest box material (Straw or woodshavings?) about every 3 - 4 days and clean the house out about every 7 - 10 days (depending on the weather/mud factor!), does this sound about right.
What is the best material to use on the floor of the house - straw or woodshavings or something else?
I am sure they perch to sleep, don't they. How comfortable does the floor need to be!?
How can I keep them 'cosy' through the winter?

Questions, questions! I am looking forward to hearing from anyone who can help me as I want to make my new friends as comfortable and happy as I possibly can!

Hi Shaz

I'm new too

If you have a coop that accomodates 8 hens, it is best not to go above 6 girls to make it more comfortable.

I use a straw called Nedz bedz in the nest boxes as it is not hollow, which can accomodate the dreaded red mite and is dust free, I also use hemcore on the floor due to it's absorbancy and its dust free properties.

I clean them out when I think they need cleaning out, which is more often in the winter months. I spot clean every day and use a tray under the perch to catch the droppings to make life a little easier

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Thanks
Lea

Hello Lea

Thank you for that information, it is really useful. I will try and get hold of the bedding you suggest as it sounds better than straw. I also like the idea of trays under the perches, that sounds like it should make life easier!

Thank you again.

Sharon

im a hen owner and lover so heres my tips

1.get good quality feed for good quality eggs
2.consider putting a light on their shed
3.urinate round their shed if youre man.foxes will smell it and flee(only once)
4.get a good sized shed they may get distressted in cramp places
5.they LOVE sweetcorn as a treat
6.speak to them for 10 minutes everyday so they get to know you

hope your hens like their new home

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kittens!!

oh and mabey getting bantams isnt a good idea-i hade some and they attack the other hens!

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kittens!!