THE REALITIES ABOUT POULTRY The Modern Farm - The Realities About Poultry_Seco | Page 47

with raised floors on posts can be protected against rats with baffles. The baffles can be made of
a metal collar, a tin can turned upside down or a metal band wound around the post, but must
fit tightly to deter even the smallest rodent.
The roof and walls of the house can be made of any inexpensive local material, including
bamboo slats, sorghum stalks, mud, wooden slats and palm fronds, as long as the structure is
made relatively rat-proof. In colder regions, the walls should be thicker or insulated, but in
warmer climates thatch can be used, although it should be replaced frequently to minimize
parasite and disease problems. The inside of the walls should be as smooth as possible, to
prevent tick and mite infestation and to make cleaning easier. Interior length-ways building
partitions are not advisable, as they reduce cross-flow ventilation.
The roof should be watertight, and should overhang the walls by one meter if the windows have
no shutters. The roof can be made of thatch, sheet metal or tiles. Thatch is usually the cheapest
option and provides good insulation. It will probably have to be replaced every three years, or
immediately if ticks get into it. It should be interlaced with bamboo or wooden slats to keep
predators out. Sheet metal is usually too expensive, and in hot climates must be painted with
white or aluminum to reflect sun heat. However, it is easily cleaned which is an important
advantage where ticks are a problem. A layer of plastic sheeting sandwiched between bamboo
slats is a good seal against rain and vermin. Flattened oil drums can be used at a lower cost.
Although usually more expensive than thatch, sun- or oven-baked tiles will last much longer.
Because of their weight, the frame for a tiled roof must be stronger than for other materials.
Window design depends on the local climate. Chickens need more ventilation than humans, but
should be sheltered from wind, dust and rain. During storms, wood or bamboo hinged shutters
or curtains made from feed sacks can cover window openings on the windward side of the
house. In humid climates, window design should take as much advantage of the wind direction
as possible to reduce the amount of moisture in the house. Window areas are best covered by
wire mesh or expanded metal. Wooden slats or bamboo can be used, depending on available
funds and materials. However, the thicker the material, the more ventilation will be reduced.
Doors should be made of metal, wood or bamboo. The top half of the door could be wire mesh.
Doors should be sufficiently strong to withstand being opened and closed many times a year.
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