Can I use chipped Eucalyptus in my run?

[pinksleepybear]

Hi,

This is my first post, but I've been a long-time lurker. I was due to get my first hens today (Ex-batts), but unfortunately, the rescue was cancelled last week.

I'm building a covered run and was going to use hemcore as groundcover, but have just found an unlimited source of chipped Eucalyptus. It's made up of whole branches that have been through a shredder, so includes wood, bark and leaves. I know I shouldn't use chipped bark, but can I use this as it isn't just bark?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

[HayleyB]

Hi there

Eucalyptus is poisonous to horses, but I don't know about chooks. Mine are on normal shavings.

BTW welcome to the madhouse

[vicky]

Hi and welcome!
The bark you can't use is that ornamental stuff in bags in garden centres. You can use chipped wood which is what you have.... I'm not sure if eucalyptus is ok or not...you could try asking on Poultry Forum - Practical Poultry Advice & Poultry Chat - Poultry Keeping - Any Country Smallholder Questions - Chickens Hens Bantams Eggs Hatching - Powered by vBulletin as they have some good chicken experts on there!

[pipscariad]

Hello and welcome to the Vine!

I admit I'm no expert, but I do know that my budgies favourite food is Eucalyptus, and they're birds too (obviously), so perhaps it is okay for hens as well? Should stop them getting sniffles as well! But I'm sure you will find someone more knowledgable than me to answer the question for definate.

Good luck with the hens when you finally get them, and keep us supplied with news and pictures

[Snadger]

It'll clear there sinuses if nowt else!