Dust baths for gamebirds?? (In specific Chukars)

[drowe005]

I'm new to owning gamebirds and have a breeding pair of Chukars. I've seen talk about Chukars liking dust baths but haven't seen much info on the uses, when to use them, sizes,how often to clean them, etc., just only the fact that they like them. Any info on dust baths in general would be appreciated, but tips for the Chukars, dimensions for the bath and so on would be great too. Thanks

I added pictures for reference to those of you who are unfamiliar with Chukars. The wood used for framing is 2x4's for you to use to compare them for size. Full grown are about 1.5 lb birds, but are more of a stockier body bird

 

[skysthelimit]

Red earth is great stuff, contains diatomaceous earth and some mineral clay. Good for keeping insects off.

 

[drowe005]

Thanks, do you know how deep to make it, the box holding the sand? I cant seem to find out much info on the internet for some reason

 

[MamaSheepdog]

I would just give them a dishpan or cat litterbox. Ashes work too- but diatomaceous earth is great stuff!

 

[skysthelimit]

I would just give them a dishpan or cat litterbox. Ashes work too- but diatomaceous earth is great stuff!

Yep, dishpan or litter box. If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace or fire pit go for it. The particles might be a bit too fine, you can add some sand to it.

 

[Frosted Rabbits]

If you make sure the surface area of the container holding the 'dustbath" permits the birds to get down real flat, and spread their wings over it as they kick dust up into the feathers, they will be happy. My hens established a dustbath in the poultry yard-- it was not deep, but big enough two birds could 'play' at the same time.

A caution-- Make sure the dustbath stays clean-- A dirty dustbath can trigger diseases.