Are backyard chickens messy?

Chickens can exhibit behaviors that some might perceive as disorderly, but whether they are considered messy animals to have in the backyard depends a lot on you and what you consider messy.

I grew up on a dairy farm. I wore rubber boots and walked through everything. The smell of manure didn’t bother me at all! It was all part of life and living and caring for the animals. But if you didn’t grow up cleaning out stalls, a chicken coop may seem unseemly.

Chickens have natural behaviors like scratching the ground to forage for food and dust bathing to keep their feathers clean and free of parasites. These activities can disturb the ground and create dust, which some people might find untidy. Additionally, chickens molt, shedding feathers periodically, which can contribute to a ruffled appearance.

However, these behaviors are part of chickens’ natural instincts. With proper coop design, regular maintenance, and strategic placement of areas for scratching and dust bathing, the “messiness” associated with these behaviors can be managed and minimized.

Causes of a Messy Coop

A disheveled chicken coop can result from a combination of factors related to both chicken behavior and management practices.

Here are some common causes of a messy chicken coop:

Scratching: Chickens naturally scratch the ground to search for food, which can lead to disturbed bedding and scattered feed. We have wood chips in our flower beds and the chickens love to get in there and scratch. They can throw the mulch onto the sidewalk and driveway–which could drive me crazy if I wasn’t so happy they were eating bugs. If they are in their coop all day, this behavior can cause dips and uneven ground as well as bedding strewn about like clothes in a teenaged girl’s bedroom. Don’t worry; it’s natural behavior. (For both chickens and teenageres.)
Dust Bathing: Chickens take dust baths to clean their feathers and ward off parasites. This involves vigorously flapping and rolling in the dirt, creating dust clouds and shifting bedding material. It’s fun to watch them take a bath. My son once asked if he could have a chicken bath instead of a people bath. 😁
Feather Molting: Chickens undergo feather molting, shedding old feathers to make way for new ones. The molting process can leave feathers strewn across the coop floor, contributing to an unkempt appearance. (And, it makes your chickens look homeless and sad.) I don’t love this phase, but it’s totally normal and healthy for them to go through it.
Droppings: Chicken droppings accumulate quickly, especially in a confined space. If not cleaned regularly, droppings can lead to unsanitary conditions and an overall messy appearance. Make cleaning the coop a nightly or weekly chore and it won’t be so bad. If you go much longer, you’ll be squawking at yourself for putting it off.
Nesting Materials: When chickens use nesting boxes to lay eggs, they often kick out nesting materials like straw or shavings. This can create a mess around the nesting area. I know it’s annoying, but I give them grace. After all, they’re giving me an egg a day and that takes effort.
Spilled Feed and Water: Chickens can be messy eaters and drinkers, often spilling feed and water onto the coop floor. This can lead to damp, dirty conditions. An easy solution is to put a block under the feeder/waterer to keep it off the ground.
Weather Conditions: Rain and mud can be carried into the coop on chickens’ feet, causing damp bedding and a muddled environment. If you spread wood shavings out before a storm, it will be easier to sweep clean.
Lack of Cleaning: Failure to regularly clean the coop, remove accumulated droppings, and refresh bedding materials can result in an increasingly messy and unsanitary living space for the chickens. It also smells bad. So, don’t put off cleaning up after your flock.
Overcrowding: Overcrowded coops lead to increased friction between chickens, which can escalate aggressive behavior and further contribute to messiness due to stressed birds. Provide them with enough space to spread their wings and they’ll be happier.
Improper Bedding: Using inappropriate or inadequate bedding materials can lead to faster accumulation of droppings and odors. There are several to choose from, including straw and hay which are easy to come by. We err on the side of having too much rather than too little.

To minimize the messiness of a chicken coop, consider the following management practices:

Design the coop with dedicated areas for scratching, dust bathing, and nesting.
Provide adequate space per chicken to reduce overcrowding. Two-to-three square feet inside the coop per bird should be enough.
Use appropriate bedding materials and change them regularly.
Establish a cleaning routine that includes regular removal of droppings and dirty bedding.
Elevate nesting boxes to prevent nesting material spillage.
Use deep litter methods to control odors and manage waste.
Create a designated feeding area to minimize feed spillage.
Provide a covered outdoor run to reduce the impact of weather conditions.
Consider installing removable trays under roosts for easier droppings cleanup.
Provide adequate space per chicken to reduce overcrowding.
Use appropriate bedding materials and change them regularly.
Establish a cleaning routine that includes regular removal of droppings and dirty
bedding.
Elevate nesting boxes to prevent nesting material spillage.
Use deep litter methods to control odors and manage waste.
Create a designated feeding area to minimize feed spillage.
Provide a covered outdoor run to reduce the impact of weather conditions.
Consider installing removable trays under roosts for easier droppings cleanup.

By addressing these factors through proper planning and regular maintenance, you can maintain a cleaner and more organized chicken coop environment.

Are chickens clean?

Usually, when people ask this question, they want to know if chickens are clean enough to keep in the house.

chicken relaxing inside with remote control

Raising chickens in your home is generally not advisable due to various practical and health-related concerns. Chickens are creatures best suited for outdoor environments, as they have specific requirements for their well-being.

Odor and Sanitation: Chickens generate waste, and their droppings can emit strong odors. Housing them indoors could lead to undesirable smells and unsanitary conditions within your living space.
Ventilation: Chickens necessitate proper airflow to prevent the buildup of moisture and ammonia from their waste. Maintaining good ventilation is crucial for fostering a healthy atmosphere for chickens, a task that can be intricate to achieve indoors.
Noise Levels: Chickens are not always quiet; they can be loud and unlike a dog–won’t stop barking/clucking when you tell them too, particularly during the early hours when they crow or engage in vocalizations.
Disease Risk and Health Concerns: Chickens can carry a range of diseases that may potentially transfer to humans. Keeping them indoors heightens the possibility of disease transmission, and it might also expose you to allergens from feathers, dander, and droppings.
Space Constraints: Chickens require ample space to roam, scratch, indulge in dust baths, and partake in their natural behaviors. Creating an indoor environment that fulfills these needs can be almost impossible. Really, do you want a chicken dust bathing in your living room?
Social and Behavioral Needs: Chickens are social animals that flourish in the company of fellow chickens. Providing a suitable social setting indoors would mean having more than one chicken inside.

Moreover, chickens need fresh air and natural sunlight. These elements play crucial roles in their health and well-being, egg-laying, and socializing. Fresh air circulates their living space, helping to prevent the buildup of harmful gases and moisture. Sunlight is essential for their physical and mental health, as it aids in the production of vitamin D and promotes natural behaviors.

If you’re keen on raising chickens, the optimal approach is to provide them with an outdoor coop and run that fits their needs.

By establishing a suitable outdoor environment, complete with proper shelter, ventilation, protection from predators, and access to nourishment and hydration, you can offer your feathered friends the optimal conditions for a healthy and enriching life.

Can Chickens be Potty Trained?

Chickens cannot be potty trained in the same way that dogs or some other pets can be. Chickens have a natural instinct to relieve themselves wherever they happen to be. They do not have the same ability to control their bodily functions as animals like dogs or cats. This behavior is deeply ingrained and is not easily altered even with focused and intense training.

What to do with Chicken Poop

Since you’re keeping the chickens outside and you’re dedicated to maintaining a clean coop, you’ll need a plan for what to do with all that poop.

Chicken poop, also known as chicken manure, is a valuable resource in gardening and agriculture due to its nutrient-rich composition. It’s high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making it an excellent natural fertilizer that can benefit plants and soil in various ways:

Fertilizer: Chicken poop can be composted and then used as a nutrient-rich fertilizer for gardens, flower beds, and crops. It helps improve soil structure, enhances water retention, and provides essential nutrients that promote plant growth. It’s a natural way to revitalize your soil and keep your garden producing year after year.
Compost Ingredient: Chicken manure can be added to compost piles to increase the nitrogen content, which accelerates the decomposition process and produces nutrient-rich compost. However, chicken manure is considered “hot” in terms of its nitrogen content, so it should be balanced with other compost materials to avoid burning plants with excessive nitrogen. Horse manure is the same way but cow manure can be used immediately. My husband didn’t know this and used fresh horse manure on seven freshly planted trees. They shriveled up and died within a month. Aged manure is always the best option.
Top Dressing: Dried and well-aged chicken manure can be applied as a top dressing around plants or incorporated into the soil to provide a slow-release source of nutrients.
Vegetable and Fruit Production: Incorporating composted or aged chicken manure into vegetable and fruit gardens can improve soil fertility and promote healthier crops. It’s great to know that you’re feeding your plants with natural ingredients.
Amending Soil: Chicken manure can be mixed into the soil before planting to improve soil structure, enhance drainage, and increase nutrient availability for plants. If you’re just starting a garden, do some soil prep with chicken droppings. Till it in well and then enjoy the benefits all harvest long.
Tree Planting: When planting trees, adding composted chicken manure to the planting hole can provide a nutrient boost to young trees and promote healthier root growth.
Greenhouse and Indoor Plants: Diluted chicken manure tea (a liquid made by steeping composted chicken manure in water) can be used as a liquid fertilizer for greenhouse and indoor plants. I suggest you prepare this tea outside and let it cool before bringing it into the house.
Lawn Care: Chicken manure will help your lawn stay green.

Using chicken manure requires some caution:

Fresh chicken manure is high in ammonia and can be too strong for plants if applied directly. It should be composted or aged for a few months to reduce its nitrogen content and eliminate harmful pathogens.
Chicken manure should be balanced with other compost materials to prevent overloading the soil with nutrients.
Always wash your hands after handling chicken manure to prevent potential disease transmission.

Chicken poop is a valuable resource (I know that sounds like an oxymoron) that, when properly managed, can contribute to healthier plants and more productive gardens. If you have more than you can use, talk to your neighbors, they may want to take some of it off your hands.

Are Chickens Easy to Keep?

That depends on your definition of easy. Compared to a goldfish, a chicken takes more time. However, compared to a border collie who is emotionally needy and has to have a job or she’ll destroy your best pair of boots, they’re pretty low maintenance.

Successful chicken-keeping requires a certain level of commitment, knowledge, and ongoing care. Here are some factors to consider when determining whether chickens are easy to keep:

Pros of Keeping Chickens

Low Maintenance: Chickens have basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and protection from predators. Once their housing and routines are established, daily maintenance tasks are generally straightforward.
Fresh Eggs: One of the main attractions of keeping chickens is the fresh eggs. With proper care, hens can provide a regular supply of eggs, which can be a satisfying and cost-effective benefit.
Natural Pest Control: Chickens are excellent foragers and can help control insects and pests in your yard and garden, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
Educational and Enjoyable: Raising chickens can be a rewarding and educational experience, particularly for families with children. Observing their behaviors, caring for them, and learning about their biology can be both enjoyable and educational.

Considerations for Chicken Keeping

Initial Setup: It’s possible to build a small coop relatively easily. Keep in mind that proper coop design and construction are important for the comfort and safety of your chickens. Researching coops is a lot of fun and figuring out what style you want can be a good time.
Predator Protection: Chickens are vulnerable to various predators, from foxes to birds of prey, not to mention neighborhood dogs. Implementing predator-proof measures requires planning and ongoing vigilance.
Health and Disease Management: Chickens can be susceptible to diseases and parasites. Regular health checks and proper hygiene practices are crucial to maintaining a healthy flock.
Climate Considerations: Different breeds tolerate various climates differently. You’ll need to ensure your coop is appropriately insulated and ventilated for the local weather conditions. Also, find chicken breeds that are acclimated to your climate before you buy them.
Routine Care: Chickens require daily care, including providing fresh water, checking for eggs, and ensuring their coop and run are clean and well-maintained.
Food and Nutrition: Providing a balanced diet is essential for egg production and overall chicken health. Proper nutrition includes commercial feed, fresh water, and occasional treats.
Zoning Regulations: Before getting chickens, research local regulations, zoning laws, and homeowner association rules that may apply to backyard chicken keeping in your area.

If you’re willing to learn, adapt, and provide proper care, keeping chickens can be a fulfilling and enjoyable hobby. There’s something magical about sitting on the back proch and watching the chickens. It slows time and brings a sense that all is right with the world.

Can Chickens Get Sick?

Yes, chickens can get sick, just like any other animal. They are susceptible to a range of diseases and health issues that can impact their well-being. Keeping a close eye on your chickens’ health and practicing good management practices can help prevent and address illnesses.

Here are some common diseases and health concerns that can affect chickens:

1. Respiratory Diseases:

Infectious Coryza: A bacterial infection causing nasal discharge, sneezing, and swollen face.
Mycoplasma Gallisepticum: Causes respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and eye discharge.

2. Parasites:

External Parasites: Mites and lice can infest feathers and skin, causing irritation and discomfort.
Internal Parasites: Worms and coccidia are common internal parasites that affect digestion and overall health.

3. Bacterial Infections:

Salmonella: Chickens can carry and spread Salmonella, which can lead to foodborne illness in humans.
E. coli: Can cause diarrhea, decreased egg production, and other symptoms.

4. Viral Infections:

Avian Influenza: A highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe illness and high mortality.
Marek’s Disease: A viral disease that affects nerves, leading to paralysis and tumors.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies:

Improper diet can lead to issues like soft-shelled eggs, weak bones, and poor overall health.

6. Egg-Laying Issues:

Egg Binding: A condition where an egg gets stuck in the reproductive tract, causing discomfort and potential health risks.
Egg Peritonitis: Inflammation and infection of the abdominal cavity due to a broken or retained egg.

7. Heat Stress:

Chickens are sensitive to high temperatures and can suffer from heat stress, which can lead to dehydration and even death.

8. Injury and Predation:

Physical injuries from fights, pecking order disputes, or predator attacks can lead to infections and health problems.

9. Egg Problems:

Soft-shelled eggs, egg abnormalities, and egg-laying difficulties can be indicative of underlying health issues.

10. Marek’s Disease:

A viral disease that affects the nervous system, leading to paralysis and tumors.

Prevention and management are key to keeping your chickens healthy. By being attentive to your chickens’ health, providing proper care, and taking preventive measures, you can help keep your flock healthy and thriving.

Here are a few things you should do to keep your chickens in tip-top shape.

Biosecurity: Practice good hygiene and quarantine new birds to prevent disease introduction.
Clean Environment: Maintain a clean coop and run to prevent bacterial and parasitic infections.
Proper Nutrition: Feed your chickens a balanced diet to support their immune systems.
Regular Health Checks: Observe your chickens daily for any signs of illness and address issues promptly.
Vaccination: Some diseases, like Marek’s disease, can be prevented through vaccination.
Consult a Veterinarian: If you suspect your chickens are sick, consult a veterinarian who specializes in poultry.

Can I Get Sick from Chickens?

Yes, you can potentially get sick from chickens. Chickens can carry various bacteria, viruses, and parasites that have the potential to cause illnesses in humans. It’s important to practice good hygiene and take certain precautions when handling chickens to reduce the risk of getting sick.

Here are some potential health risks associated with handling chickens and how to minimize them:

1. Salmonella:

Chickens can carry Salmonella bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with the birds, their droppings, feathers, or contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms in humans include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting.
To reduce the risk: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling chickens, avoid touching your face while handling them, and clean and disinfect surfaces that come into contact with chickens.

2. Campylobacter:

Chickens can also carry Campylobacter bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans in a similar manner as Salmonella.
Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and muscle pain.
To reduce the risk: Practice good hand hygiene, cook chicken meat thoroughly, and avoid cross-contamination between raw chicken and other foods.

3. Avian Influenza (Bird Flu):

While the risk is low, some strains of avian influenza can be transmitted from birds to humans. Direct contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces can pose a risk.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches.
To reduce the risk: Avoid contact with sick birds, wear protective clothing when handling chickens, and report any unusual bird deaths to authorities.

4. Allergies and Respiratory Irritation:

Chicken feathers, dander, and dust can trigger allergies and respiratory irritation in some individuals, especially those with preexisting respiratory conditions.
Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, congestion, and difficulty breathing.
To reduce the risk: Wear a mask while cleaning the coop, maintain proper ventilation, and wash your hands and clothes after handling chickens.

5. E. coli and Other Bacterial Infections:

Exposure to contaminated surfaces or materials in the coop can lead to bacterial infections in humans.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of infection and can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
To reduce the risk: Maintain a clean coop environment, wash hands thoroughly, and avoid contact with contaminated areas.

To minimize the risk of getting sick from chickens:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling chickens or their surroundings.
Avoid kissing chickens.
Wear gloves and protective clothing when cleaning the coop.
Avoid eating or drinking while handling chickens.
Supervise children to ensure they practice proper hygiene around chickens.
If you have a weakened immune system, consult a healthcare professional before interacting with chickens.

By following these precautions and practicing good hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of raising chickens while reducing the risk of getting sick.

While some may consider chickens messy, in reality, they’re just doing what chickens do naturally. Any time you bring an animal or bird into your yard, you’re going to have to have a plan to take care of them and clean up after them. Chickens are no different. But don’t let that discourage you from becoming an urban chicken farmer. The work is not difficult and the rewards far outweigh the effort. With research, planning, and preparation, you can have a positive chicken keeping experience.