We have a couple new to us hens (7 weeks old) and we haven't seen either take a dust bath. It's been colder out/not a lot of sun. Is this something that takes a little time for them to get comfortable and do? We have a bath set up in the coop and the coop floor is dirt, but no takers yet...any thoughts on how to encourage this? Also, whats the best flooring for a coop? We're worried our dirt is a little too clay-like.
Hello! Welcome to the forum! Dust bathing is an instinctual behavior, but some chickens develop it sooner than others. If they're still new (and young), they may just be taking the time to settle in and get comfortable in their new home before having a day out at the spa ;) Warm, dry, and dusty earth is the best. If it's been cold, it may be too chilly or moist to take a dust bath. If you feel the need to modify the ground, you can use river sand or any other non-homogenized sand. You can also add wood ash, or diatomaceous earth to their dust bath to help them keep external parasites away.
Looks like they are getting settled and we've witnessed a few bathing sessions. Thank you!