Chicken boarders

[Pipichick]

Since reading on here that bark chips aren't ideal for chickens I have been desperately searching garden centres and DIY stores for woodchips, to no avail Has anyone got any recommendations for any nationwide store or a source in Leics. Any suggestions very much appreciated or any alternative flooring for the run.

[kissinuk]

You can get either Aubiose or a big bale of straw from Welland Valley Feeds in Market Harborough (huge straw bales are only £2!).

[batcatz]

Hi, you could ring around some local tree surgeons as you could get it all for free. Tree surgeon wood chips are much better than diy stores wood chip and might contain some tasty insects for the chickens.

[Pipichick]

Had thought about auboise, as we use that to line the poo trays, but our run is open to the elements, and I've read that it needs to be kept dry. Think I will try and find a helpful tree surgeon. Thanks for your help.

[Stedic]

I'm not sure whereabouts in Leicestershire you are, but I get my woodchip from Woodcock Farm Shop on the A6 near Rothley/Cossington. It costs me £1.50 a bag, and for a deep layer in a 3m run I use three bags. They also do straw in similar quantities for £1, and they do all the feeds etc too! Worth a look if you're nearby.

[Pipichick]

Stedic, thank you very much for this. Think we will be making a visit there this weekend