How to Make Poultry Bird Baths

Different types of poultry enjoy different types of bathing. Chickens don't generally prefer to bathe in water but they do like a good dusting. Dust baths dislodge parasites like mites and absorb the excess oil in the chicken's feathers. Other poultry, like ducks and geese must have a water bath daily for proper grooming even in winter in order to maintain the insulating quality of their feathers.

Things You'll Need

  • Large cat litter box
  • Fireplace ashes
  • Road dust
  • Sand
  • Fiberglass or plastic pond, or kiddie pool
  • Old wheelbarrow body
  • Diatomaceous earth
  • Large stone or ramp
  • Concrete pavers or slabs
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Instructions

  1. Chicken, Bantam or Capon Dust Bath

    • 1

      Allow the chickens to dig their own dust bath if possible. Locate the chicken run in an area where there is fine, dry soil.

    • 2

      Provide a cat box in a sheltered area with 6 inches of dusting powder in locations with stony or damp soil.

    • 3

      Purchase dusting powder at feed or pet stores or make your own. Combine equal parts of fireplace ashes, road dust, sand and diatomaceous earth.

    • 4

      Replenish the dusting powder when it gets low. It's not necessary to change the dusting powder on a schedule.

    Duck or Goose Bath

    • 5

      Set up a hard-sided garden pond or kiddie pool in the yard.

    • 6

      Add a ramp or large stone to help the ducks or geese get out of the water. They will slip on the sides of the pool without the assistance.

    • 7

      You can also use an old wheelbarrow body for a pond. It will be easier to dump the water to clean it and the sloped end allows the ducks to easily leave the water.

    • 8

      Surround the pool with concrete slabs to prevent mud puddles.

    • 9

      Dump the water any time it looks fouled. This will vary depending on the breed of waterfowl and number of birds kept.