by Kim Berg, CoopCrate staff writer
It may appear a bit strange to new chicken keepers the first time they see their chickens burrowing themselves into the dirt. They may even make noises while they do this, which could seem alarming. We promise your chickens aren’t weird, they’re just taking a dust bath!
What Is A Dust Bath?
Dust baths are a natural way to keep your chickens’ feathers in pristine condition. This simple process cleans their feathers, removes any excess oils, and kills parasites by clogging their breathing pores. Consider it the ultimate grooming tool for your flock. It’s an instinctual behavior that most chickens will do without much thought. Chickens aren’t the only ones who do this, many other animals in the wild enjoy dust baths too! The process of dust bathing is pretty straight forward, so let’s break it down.
First, the chicken will find a spot to dig and roll around in the dirt. The goal here is to completely cover themselves, so they are dusted down all the way to their skin. This will suffocate any parasites (mites, fleas, etc.) and leave them for dead. It’s important to provide all chickens with dust bath facilities so they can perform this cleansing ritual as frequently as they see fitting.
How To Make A Dust Bath Facility
If your flock hasn’t made one themselves already, here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Find a shallow large pan, tire, or a wooden edged raised garden frame.
- Fill it with dirt, sand, hardwood ashes, or a combination of all three.
- Make the bath at least 4 inches deep and wide enough for your flock to lay sideways and roll around in.
- Feel free to add small amounts of food-grade diatomaceous earth and dry herbs for additional benefits.
- Place the pan in a warmer spot during the colder months (and a shaded spot during the warmer ones), where it won’t get wet.
- Sift out any waste from your dust bath and replenish it weekly to maintain.
- Prepare to be entertained!
Do Baby Chicks Need Dust Baths?
Since very young chicks have down, they don’t need to take dust baths. But, they will likely still roll around regardless. You can place clean play sand or washed builders sand in the brooder for them to take dust baths as they please. Once their actual feathers come in, dust baths will become more vital to their grooming routine.
Overall, dust baths are a simple and convenient way for your flock to get clean while having fun. Though some might need it more than others, your whole flock will love and appreciate you for providing the resources needed to connect to their roots through this unique method of staying clean!