For now we are going with the "deep litter" method, which only requires cleaning out the coop every few months. If we rake the straw, the poop falls to the bottom, mixes with straw and naturally starts to compost. It is actually a less-smelly option than no straw on the bottom. So all continue to keep raking and adding straw as needed. We still need to scrape off the ladder, deck and if possible, the perches inside the coop, that is where they actually sleep.
Vents with doors would be a good addition to the next coop, add it to the list. For now we could cover the west facing triangle in these sub-zero and windy nights. It would need to be removed in the morning however.
I led a tour of the coop and answered questions for the group of 6th graders from the Denver Green School today. They were high energy, and had good questions. Their school actually has money set aside for a coop, what a wonderful opportunity for these urban dwelling kiddos. Advocacy and teaching is part of what Urban Hens is all about, it was great to be a part of it today.
Thanks for explaining the method for us newbies. It's nice to know the theory behind the practice. This makes a lot of sense to me, and I know some other folks who keep chickens who have a similar practice. They actually have two yards. They use one yard for a period of time, then switch to the other and allow the first to finish composting. Then they switch again. And fluffing the straw should also help insulate better too. - Amy
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