Tag: coop

Never Use Diatomaceous Earth, Here’s Why

DE is Old School Practice, Today We Know Better

Using diatomaceous earth (DE) in your coop or in dust baths poses a threat to both you and your chickens, as it results in the continuous presence of dangerous irritant particles in the air. Diatomaceous earth (DE) serves no essential purpose, raises safety concerns, and proves ineffective for its claimed applications.

The primary concern with using DE is the fine dust that it creates when handled. When under a microscope, you can see that Diatomaceous Earth is fine and very sharp. Inhaling this dust is a lung and respiratory irritant, potentially leading to respiratory issues. I’m not just talking about this being a danger to your chickens, but to you as well. As you well know, there are always particles in the air when you are cleaning the coop, maybe from a windy day, or just from your birds scratching around looking for bugs. Once you lay down DE you are putting yourself and your birds at risk, even if you put shavings on top. If you’re wondering if food grade DE is safe, the answer is NO.
If you’re not concerned about lung and respiratory problems, the other issue with using DE is irritation to the skin and eyes, especially in the dry powder form.
So, if you’re going to use DE, I hope you don’t mind wearing a mask, gloves, and protective eyewear. And, if you don’t mind putting your chickens’ health at risk or wearing hazmat apparel when caring for your chickens, then go ahead and use DE… but you have been warned of the consequences.
Here’s What Another Chicken Keeper Says About DE:
The Cut & Dry Truth About Diatomaceous Earth By The Chicken Chick

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A Review, Humumu Chicken Nest Box

Wall Mount $109 – Amazon
With Legs: 8/2023 $129

Do I Love It? Yes! 🙂

“I chose the 3-hole nest box with legs rather than a wall mount. The unit is available in different sizes, sturdy, and very well made. The removable plastic nest box is a grate, and this was the selling point for me. I put artificial turf in my nest boxes; however, when I have an unwanted broody hen, I’m hoping removing the turf discourages this. The box itself has great airflow, which is perfect for climates with hot summers. ” – TBN Ranch

About the Humumu 3 Hole Nest Box

HUMUMU Chicken Nesting Box is designed specifically to provide clean, comfortable, safe, and covered laying space for hens, giving them a sense of security and increasing egg production. These durable, stable, and easy-to-assemble nesting boxes can be used long-term.
One of the biggest benefits of the HUMUMU Chicken Nesting Box is its slightly tilted design, allowing eggs to roll into the tray. This protects and cleans the eggs, making them easy to collect at any time. You can effortlessly obtain more high-quality eggs. We recommend placing some bedding under the egg box cover for additional egg protection.
These Nesting Boxes are different from any other nesting box on the market. They are made using high-quality materials for durability. Hot-dip galvanized stainless steel and highly durable ABS plastic ensure a long lifespan. Unique side-hole designs increase hen airflow and breathing ability.
The removable trays are easy to clean, and any other excess can be washed away with water by removing the trays.
Each package includes all the screws and nuts needed for assembly, as well as a bonus egg collection tray that can hold up to 12 eggs. Unit can be hung and dismantled easily with the key-shaped hanging hole and installed at a height of 18-22 inches above the ground.

Assembly Directions Were Unclear, So Here’s a Helpful Video…

Humumu 3 Hole Nest Box Set Up My Coop
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Choosing A Mist System for Your Chickens

During the summer season, it’s inevitable to encounter a recurring heat wave that poses a potential risk to the welfare of your backyard flock. Although we have no control over the weather, we can certainly modify our approach in handling such situations. It’s essential to proactively equip ourselves for the worst-case scenario and establish a well-thought-out plan in advance, ensuring we are fully prepared before the need arises.

Portable Misters

To ensure the well-being of your birds during hot weather, using a mister, ideally in conjunction with a fan, is highly recommended. Mist systems have the ability to significantly lower the ambient temperature, while the fan aids in effectively dispersing the cool air. Even in the absence of electricity, a mister can still serve as an effective means to keep your birds cool.
There are numerous options available when it comes to misters, with the portable free-standing type being the most affordable. However, it has a limitation in that it can only cool a small area. Additionally, you may find yourself replacing it every season due to clogging of the nozzles caused by calcium deposits. It’s worth noting that many portable misters lack replacement nozzles, so it’s advisable to seek out models that offer better options.
Note: I use the sidewinder mister (pic below) in my coop on low, just enough to cool the air, but not get the coop wet. I use a larger free standing portable with two misting nozzles for the run.

Overhead Misting Lines

Overhead misting lines provide extensive coverage and are highly efficient, often providing replacement nozzles. It is advisable to install the misters in a location where nozzle replacement can be easily done without the need for a ladder. Numerous varieties of line misters are available on Amazon, offering a wide range of options to suit individual preferences and requirements. It is important to note that these misters are most suitable for covering large areas and are not recommended for use in a coop, where a dry environment is essential. They are better suited for large runs or secluded areas where your birds can enjoy a visit.

Here Are Some of Your Choices

Line Misting System
Free-Standing Mister
Flexible Sidewinder Mister

Where to Buy

Numerous misters, along with many others, can be found on Amazon. Conduct thorough research to discover the ideal mister that will ensure the comfort of your flock. In Phoenix, a mister can be the determining factor between survival and death. Presently, the temperature for July reaches a scorching 112-118 degrees during the day, while dropping to 96 degrees overnight. Trust me, mist systems are extremely beneficial.

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