6 practical ideas for a happy hen house

1

A thick (at least 10cm) covering of bark chips or pine post peelings will allow poultry to dust bathe, scratch for insects and worms, and keep their feet clean on wet days.

2

Provide trees and bushes for security from overhead predators and bullies within the flock. Bamboo or native grasses can provide good cover but prevent perching.

3

Provide a complete balanced diet in a feeder (ideally one that prevents wild birds from eating feed) so that hens can use it to supplement what they find to maintain health and good egg production.

4

Ensure they have access to cool, clean water in a shady area. Consider setting up an automatic watering system so water is as fresh as possible.

5

Ensure all new birds are kept contained within the coop area for at least a couple of weeks so they learn where to roost and nest before they are allowed out to free range. Let them out in the late afternoon at the start, then encourage them to come back inside with a scratch grain feed.

6

Free range birds are more exposed to diseases carried by wild birds and rodents, including salmonella, fowl pox and fowl cholera. Viral diseases such as infectious bronchitis can be carried on the wind in dust particles from nearby flocks. Parasites such as worms, coccidia and blackhead, once they pass into the soil and the worm/slug population, can be almost impossible to get rid of. Clear out the litter layer a couple of times a year and put in a new batch. Alternatively, have a second run which is free from contamination where young or newly- purchased stock can go.