Safe wood chips for chickens - Ask Extension
I have many different trees and a wood chipper. I would like to make chips for my chicken coop and nest boxes but I want to only chip tree branches th...
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Safe wood chips for chickens #767475
Asked August 15, 2021, 6:11 PM EDT
I have many different trees and a wood chipper. I would like to make chips for my chicken coop and nest boxes but I want to only chip tree branches that are safe for them. My trees: Liriodendron, Douglas Fir, English Laurel, Eucalyptus, Myrtlewood, Japanese Magnolia, Holly, Rhododendron. Thank you.
Coos County Oregon
Expert Response
I was very specific in my question. Please read it. I need this information.
Most typical wood chips are ok as poultry bedding. From your list, the rhododendron chips are minimally problematic if they eat very much. Also hardwoods can cause foot injuries from splinters. Realize that research has not been done on many types of wood chips so the effect on poultry are not known. Fir and pine are most common and cedar can also be used.
Thank you for the info. I was worried most about English Laurel because most of it is toxic since, like Rhodies, it’s allelopathic. I found this online so I became wary of chipping it for bedding.
“Laurel hedging is also toxic to humans – including berries, leaves and stems – and particularly wilted or fallen leaves. Care should be taken whilst planting your hedge and avoid chipping the wood, as this can release hydrocyanic fumes into the air.”
I’m actually surprised that living in a rural state I assumed most people would make their own chips instead of buying them. That made me think there would be at least anecdotal info on what is wood safest. I just don’t want my hens eating something toxic.
Thanks again.
