Sand/ dirt digging tray?

[melody1968]

Hi, we are in the process of setting up a large cage...it’s a chicken coop 2.4 x 1.5 meters, for when our visiting corella may decide to move in.
It’s under our patio at the moment and is over a grate which we need to cover.
I’m thinking a large tray of sand or dirt could provide fun & cover. I can’t use dirt from the garden as it’s likely contaminated with either dog or chicken poo.
Could I use shop bought beach sand maybe? Is there anything in sand that could hurt her? Silica etc?

 

[noodles123]

I wouldn't provide access to those things-- period. I know why you want to (I get it) but it will only pose health hazards to your birds and potentially encourage hormonal behaviors. Sand is unsafe when ingested, as is dirt...plus, digging in stuff gets them into nesting mode. ESPECIALLY COCKATOOS (I have one). Dirt is also dangerous for a captive bird without the same immunity as a wild one (many birds die from illness or develop immunity in the wild). Dirt is often filled with parasites, bacteria, pesticides, road salt etc...


Also-- make sure it isn't too shadowy under your patio/porch, or you will encourage hormonal behavior due to their desire to nest in dim places.


And silica is DEFINITELY a big hazard--do not use- very dangerous.

 

[SailBoat]

There are several levels of 'beach' sand and the more sterile the more expensive. In addition, sand and dirt tend to hold moisture and as a result builds weight and cause metal to rust and rots wood. Concrete tends to be best as it can be easily kept clean.

Not sure what wild life you have, but chicken coop wire tends to let in things like snakes, mice, etc...

 

[melody1968]

Thanks I will rethink the sand tray. I don't want it to harbour anything or hurt her.
The patio flooring is concrete and we don't have vermi. Patio area is light & airy. Maybe hubby can make up a plate to go across the drain grating...

 

[noodles123]

Also-- just in case you stumble across it in a pet store (because they sometimes do sell this) you do NOT want to use corn-cob bedding ---yes, it is available, but it can cause them to get impacted if they ingest it and it is considered an unsafe option by most CAVs. I mention this because when I first got Noodles, I considered getting some (having seen it at bird shop). I didn't but just throwing it out there in case you stumble across it and wonder if it's a safe alternative, it is not.