Solitary chicken - need advice

[smac]

Having been wowed by my eglu I expanded the family and upgraded to a cube but I am seriously worried by the 1/2 inch gap between the back of the cube and top of the poo trays which is allowing a real draught right on to where my girls roost. I sent photos in but I am told this gap is normal - is it ? I have read similar concerns on other sites but omlet seems to have replaced other cubes ! Can anyone reassure me that this is ok ?

 

sharon - on behalf of 4 very draughty girls !

[Sheilaz]

Hello, and welcome to the forum.

This was discussed quite a lot when the Cube was launched, and Omlet told us that the design was allowing for good ventilation.

Mine was one of the first batch, & the hens have been very happy & healthy in it for a year and 4 months, throughout all weathers.

 

Siting the Cube in a sheltered rather than totally exposed area makes sense, but I'm sure the usual UK weather has been taken into account, the gaps are fine for hens.

[Guest]

Hi

 

Mine was new in May 09 and it has gaps all over not completely tight, but the trays do have gaps and as I dont have any leaks am glad that the air can get in and circulate rather than stagnate.

 

Mine is butted up to a semi WIR but I think the poo trays would really smell if there wasnt any air circulating. I see it as a plus.

 

indie

[Olly]

I agree, I think it's deliberate to allow for ventilation. Because the Cube and Eglu are constructed in one piece and are double-skinned, it could get very hot and airless inside with the door shut and no gaps. Hens hate being too hot, and if they're roosting on the bars they won't feel a draught.

[Plum]

There are lots of gaps and ventilation areas in the cube. It really worried me to begin with. Mine went through last winter Brrrrr in there and stayed warm. When it was really icy cold and windy I put folded newspaper in the gap above the tray but only to stop OH wittling . They roost naturally in trees so need lots of ventilation.

[Egluntyne]

They roost naturally in trees so need lots of ventilation.

 

Good point Plum.

 

It get very hot inside the Cube at night, if ever you go to see to the chickens once they have gone to bed.....so no need to worry.