So just a couple of weeks ago, we went through a bit of a heat wave here in Maryland. Which is fine by me because I love the heat. Their Majesties (my hens) were sorely displeased, however. They spent most of their time hanging out under the coop. Now they’ve been doing the same thing over the last couple of days, but for an entirely different reason: they have a muddy chicken run and daily rain! I think going out in the rain to take care of them is worse than taking care of them in the winter snow!
There was a break in the rain today, so I ran up to Gambrills General Store to get the solution to my problem….. Straw! Yes, they sell straw for a little over $7. I purchased two because the rain isn’t letting up any time soon. I don’t want to fill my chicken run with sand, and we already have a trench that diverts the worst of the water.
Why Is a Muddy Chicken Run So Bad?
Besides mud not being fun to walk on (whether you’re a person or a chicken), once their poop mixes in, it becomes really stinky mud! Then it attracts flies! It’s just bad all around. However, the worst reason I think:
The parasites’ eggs love wet, warmish, mucky areas, so make sure to keep your runs clean and mud free. via The Complete Guide To Chicken Parasites: Part 2
A muddy chicken run encourages parasite breeding. Preventing and diseases or infections is easier than treating them. So try and keep things clean for your chickens!
So as you can see below, I put out the hay, and I didn’t even spread it around. I let their Majesties do that themselves. Makes them so happy! Check them out:
What do you do to help your chickens during super rainy weather? Give out your top tip in the comments!
Hi Thanks for linking to my article on managing a muddy chicken run. Wish you much success with your homestead and blog. – Janet @ Timber Creek Farm
I’m glad you saw it! It’s one of the top articles that addresses the issue!!!