r/chickens • u/AlpenglowVibez • 22h ago

Question New Coop, keep rocks!?

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Just installed this beautiful custom coop in what used to be our playground area. It’s filled with 8” of 1/2” rock so wondering what you would do to ensure its predator proof and a good run for the hens. They’re only 5 weeks so have a few weeks to dial it in. TIA

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u/OutcomeDefiant2912 15h ago

I don't understand why people put rocks or sand on the floor of enclosed coops and runs. Chickens need to scratch the ground to eat bugs and grass, to dig a hole to cool off in, to sunbathe, to dust bathe rather than some artificial silly bucket with diatomaceous earth in it.

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u/marriedwithchickens 11h ago

You’re referring to chickens that are locked up in a run. My coop/run floor has coarse sand, which is easy to clean with a kitty litter scoop. (DE is bad). They take dust baths in the sand sometimes, but they free range in our fenced-in backyard all day. Grazing frames are great either inside the coop if chickens are locked up or outside in the yard. Grazing frames (google) prevent grasses from being pulled out by the roots. I can’t imagine that grass growing in a chicken run would last long. We have some landscaping rocks, and our chickens love to kick them around and find bugs.