Exercise is as important to chickens as it is to humans. Just like us, they get weak and unhappy when they don’t get enough of the physical activity that their bodies need. This is where a jungle gym chickens structures becomes handy.
Now chickens raised in backyards usually lack exercise. This is because their space is limited and backyards often are not set up to meet this need.
If you have a relatively large yard where they can free-range, with various ‘obstacles’ for them to climb or perch on, then that’s good. But what if you don’t have that kind of space?
The solution is to build a chicken jungle gym! It’s a very simple project that can be made totally out of scrap timber or tree branches.
You can build it any way you like with only one thing to keep in mind – it should be a high vertical structure. This way they can really work out the muscles that they use for climbing and perching. Using different types and sizes of timber and branches is great too.
Look at our gallery to get some inspiration for building your own chicken jungle gym!
Is your backyard lacking a jungle gym for your chooks?
Contents
Building a Jungle Gym Chickens Structure
Materials
- Plywood
- Branches
- Timber (different sizes)
- Wood Screws
Tools
- Saw
- Cordless Drill
- Sander
Instructions
Step 1: Design Your Jungle Gym
- Sketch a design of your jungle gym. Consider incorporating various levels and platforms at different heights to encourage climbing.
- Plan for features like ladders, perches, and climbing posts.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
- Cut a large piece of plywood using the saw to serve as the base of the jungle gym. This will stabilize the structure.
- Sand the edges of the plywood to prevent splinters.
Step 3: Cut Timber and Branches
- Using the saw, cut the timber and branches into desired lengths for posts, perches, and crossbeams.
- Sizes can vary to make the gym more interesting and challenging for the chickens.
Step 4: Assemble the Vertical Structures
- Drill holes at the ends of the timber and branches where they will connect to the base and each other.
- Screw the branches and timber uprights onto the base plywood using wood screws to create a vertical climbing frame.
Step 5: Add Crossbeams and Perches
- Attach horizontal branches and smaller pieces of timber between the uprights to serve as perches and crossbeams.
- Use the cordless drill and wood screws to secure these pieces, ensuring they are stable and can bear weight.
Step 6: Incorporate Climbing Features
- Attach additional branches in a ladder-like fashion or create a ramp by securing a piece of timber at an angle.
- Ensure all parts are securely fastened and can support the chickens’ movement and weight.
Step 7: Sand Rough Edges
- Use the sander to smooth any rough edges or splinters on the jungle gym to make it safe for the chickens.
Step 8: Final Inspection and Placement
- Inspect the jungle gym for any loose screws or unstable parts. Tighten and secure as necessary.
- Place the jungle gym in the chicken area, preferably on a flat surface to ensure stability.
Step 9: Introduce the Chickens to Their New Gym
- Let your chickens explore the jungle gym. Observe them to make sure they can climb and perch safely.
Click on any image to start the lightbox display. Use your Esc key to close the lightbox. 8-)
Thanks to Chicken Boo for this great project. You can get step-by-step instructions here…
Benefits of Physical Activity for Chickens
Physical activity is crucial for the well-being of chickens, much like it is for any other pet or livestock. Providing a stimulating environment, such as a chicken jungle gym, can greatly enhance their physical health and emotional well-being.
Here’s a closer look at the benefits of incorporating jungle gym chickens into your backyard poultry care.
Enhances Muscle Strength and Bone Health
Chickens that frequently use a jungle gym have better muscle tone and stronger bones. Climbing and perching on a jungle gym challenge their muscles and skeletal system, similar to how a workout benefits humans. Regular use of jungle gym chickens helps prevent the deterioration of physical health and promotes a robust build.
Improved Feather Health
Regular physical activity helps keep chickens’ feathers in better condition. The movement encourages blood circulation, which is vital for nourishing the feathers and skin. This can lead to glossier, more resilient feathers, reducing problems like feather picking and mites.
Socialization Opportunities
Exercise areas such as a jungle gym provide chickens with more opportunities to socialize and establish a healthy pecking order. These interactions are essential for maintaining a harmonious flock and can help reduce aggressive behaviors by providing a constructive outlet for energy.
Enhanced Immune Function
Physical activity boosts overall immune function in chickens by promoting healthier circulation and reducing stress, which can suppress immune response. A physically active chicken is generally more resilient against common poultry diseases and infections.
Improves Coordination and Agility
Navigating a jungle gym requires chickens to jump, climb, and balance, which enhances their coordination and agility. Jungle gym chickens constantly adapt to different heights and angles, improving their natural abilities to maneuver through various environments. This can be particularly beneficial in avoiding predators and navigating their surroundings safely.
Increases Mental Stimulation
A jungle gym provides chickens with a variety of activities that can prevent boredom and stimulate their minds. Jungle gym chickens are likely to exhibit fewer behavioral issues, such as feather pecking or aggression, as they are mentally engaged and entertained. The complexity of navigating a jungle gym keeps their minds active and sharp.
Promotes Healthy Weight Management
Jungle gym chickens are less likely to become overweight, thanks to the physical exercise they get from using the gym. Regular physical activity helps them maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of obesity-related issues, which can include joint problems and metabolic disorders. Jungle gym chickens benefit from an environment that encourages constant movement.
Enhances Overall Well-being
The overall well-being of jungle gym chickens tends to be significantly better compared to chickens without access to such exercise options. Physical activity boosts their immune system, reducing the frequency of diseases and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Furthermore, happy jungle gym chickens are known to be more productive, particularly in terms of egg-laying.
Incorporating a jungle gym into your chickens’ environment provides them with numerous health benefits, making jungle gym chickens happier, healthier, and more active.
Safety Tips for Chicken Jungle Gyms
Building a chicken jungle gym is a fantastic way to provide your chickens with a stimulating environment that encourages physical activity. However, safety is paramount to ensure that your jungle gym chickens enjoy their playground without any risks.
Here are some essential safety tips to consider when constructing and maintaining a chicken jungle gym.
Use Non-Toxic Materials
Ensure that all materials used in the construction of your chicken jungle gym are non-toxic and safe for chickens to peck at. Chickens are curious creatures and may peck at their jungle gym. Using untreated wood and avoiding harmful paints or chemicals is crucial to prevent any health issues.
Stable Construction
A stable structure is vital to prevent injuries. Make sure that the chicken jungle gym is well-anchored to the ground to withstand the weight and activity of the chickens. Regularly check the stability of the jungle gym to ensure that it hasn’t become wobbly or uneven, which could lead to accidents.
Smooth Surfaces and Edges
Check all parts of the chicken jungle gym for sharp edges or rough surfaces. Sand down any potentially dangerous spots to prevent cuts or other injuries to your jungle gym chickens. This includes checking screws and nails to ensure they are fully embedded and not posing a hazard.
Appropriate Sizing
Design the chicken jungle gym with the size of your chickens in mind. The perches and platforms should be appropriately sized to ensure that your jungle gym chickens can use them comfortably without struggling. Overly small or large features can cause discomfort or injuries during use.
Proper Spacing Between Features
Ensure that the spacing between perches, ladders, and other features in your jungle gym chickens structure is appropriate. Too much space can cause chickens to misjudge distances and potentially fall, while too little space may lead to injuries from collisions.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Perform regular maintenance checks on the jungle gym chickens structure. Look for signs of wear and tear. Some examples are splintered wood or rusting screws, which could harm your chickens. Replace or repair damaged parts promptly to maintain the integrity and safety of the structure.
Weatherproofing
Protect the jungle gym chickens structure from the elements by applying a weather-resistant finish. This will prevent the wood from rotting and weakening, which could lead to structural failures. Make sure the finish is non-toxic and safe for animals to ensure your chickens’ health is not compromised.
Ensuring the safety of your chicken jungle gym not only protects your chickens but also maximizes the benefits they gain from such an enriching environment. Regular inspections and maintenance of the jungle gym will keep your jungle gym chickens healthy, happy, and active.
Conclusion
Building a jungle gym for chickens is a rewarding project that enhances their physical health and mental well-being. Ensure the structure is safe, sturdy, and appropriate for your chickens to enjoy it to the fullest. With the right design and materials, your jungle gym chickens will thrive, leading to happier, healthier birds.
We have more ways to keep your chickens active. Check out our DIY chicken playground ideas!
