Ideally, chickens, need a perch because they like to roost off the ground because this prevents external parasites from invading their bodies and keeps them from lying in their own droppings. You do not want chickens sleeping in the nesting box where eggs are laid. Chickens do not like to roost where they nest.
Firstly, yes, to provide your chickens with the basic fundamentals of a good home you MUST have a perch. Where, how and why? Read on to find out everything you need to know about providing the perfect perch. Why do I need a roost ?
Finally, roosting helps chickens to feel safe and this is important so that they can get a good night’s sleep and be fresh for the day ahead. When a chicken is feeling poorly, or they are molting, they will sometimes take themselves off to a perch and quietly hang out until they feel better.
Your perches should be at least eighteen inches off the floor while leaving enough headroom for birds jumping or flying up. Heavier chickens should have perches at a slightly lower level (twelve inches) to try and prevent leg and feet injuries. Bantams love to fly so you can put the perches up high for them if you want.
Why does my chicken have a bump on its perch?
Common Problems with Roosting Perches When a chicken roosts at night, it will settle down with its’ keel-bone resting on the perch between its feet. So, pressure from the bird’s weight is concentrated in three small areas – both feet and the keel. As you can see, a sharp, bumpy perch can cause problems in those areas.
What do chickens do a lot of?
Chickens are omnivores which means their diet includes plants, insects, seeds and even small animals like mice and frogs. Chickens would also likely peck at a carcass as well if they had the chance. Below: Here is one of my white Leghorns looking for food in the natural free range way. Your browser does not support the video tag.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrition and flavor, making them fantastic chicken treats. Chickens will happily eat any kind of egg : raw, boiled, poached, you name it.