Coop and Runs

 

Coops and runs are essential components of a chicken keeping setup. They provide shelter, protection, and a safe living environment for your chickens. Here’s what you need to know about coops and runs:

Coop:

  1. Shelter: The coop is the enclosed shelter where your chickens roost, lay eggs, and seek protection from adverse weather conditions. It should be secure, well-ventilated, and insulated if you live in a region with extreme temperatures.

  2. Size: The size of the coop depends on the number of chickens you plan to keep. A general rule of thumb is to allow at least 2-3 square feet of floor space per chicken inside the coop. More space is better to prevent overcrowding.

  3. Nesting Boxes: Inside the coop, you’ll need nesting boxes where hens can lay eggs. Each box should be about 12×12 inches and located off the ground for privacy and protection.

  4. Perches: Chickens like to roost at night. Install sturdy perches or roosting bars a few feet above the coop floor. Each chicken typically needs around 8-12 inches of roosting space.

  5. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and provide fresh air. Ensure there are vents or windows that can be opened and closed as needed.

  6. Security: The coop should be predator-proof. This means strong locks on doors and windows, secure wire mesh to keep out predators like raccoons, foxes, and rats, and a solid floor or buried wire to prevent digging.

Run:

  1. Exercise Area: The run is an enclosed outdoor area where your chickens can roam during the day. It provides space for exercise, pecking, scratching, and dust bathing.

  2. Size: The size of the run is important for the well-being of your chickens. It should offer at least 8-10 square feet per chicken to ensure they have enough space to move around comfortably.

  3. Protection: The run should be covered with a roof or wire mesh to protect against aerial predators like hawks and owls. Bury the wire mesh at least a foot into the ground to prevent digging predators.

  4. Shade and Shelter: Provide shade in the run, especially during hot weather, and consider placing a small shelter or coop extension within the run for added protection during bad weather.

  5. Toys and Enrichment: Chickens benefit from toys and enrichment items, like hanging treats, perches, and dust bath areas, in the run to keep them mentally and physically engaged.

  6. Easy Access: Make sure there’s a convenient door or gate to access the run for feeding, cleaning, and interacting with your chickens.

  7. Regular Cleaning: Keep the run clean to prevent the buildup of waste and reduce the risk of disease. Regularly replace or add fresh bedding materials, like straw or wood shavings.

Both the coop and run should be maintained regularly to ensure the health and happiness of your chickens. Providing a safe and comfortable environment is essential for their well-being and productivity.

 

By following these guidelines and maintaining your coop and run diligently, you ensure a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment for your chickens. Happy and healthy chickens are more likely to reward you with fresh eggs and delightful companionship.

What Kind of Chicken Coop Plan Is Best For YOU?

Are you the handy type who enjoys projects, and working with tools?  Then building a chicken coop should be easy, you can either build a coop on your own or build your new chicken coop from a set of plans. I have a few options below; some are free others are paid.

One thing to take into consideration is the number of chickens you will be raising; you will need a chicken coop that will give your chickens a place to nest and roost.




Below you can get access to some simple plans, CLICK HERE or if you really want a challenge and build the Chicken hotel that all the neighbors and your friend will admire. CLICK HERE But to get you started here are some FREE PLANS.

Get Instant Access To 10 Complete Chicken Coop Designs!


Click here

See the collection of chicken coop designs that I hope will help everyone get the backyard coop that they want.

 Available for instant access in PDF format these guides include the diagrams, materials lists, illustrations, and instructions for how to make each chicken coop. 

Perhaps more importantly, these are not just ideas for coops, but real coops that have actually been built and used.

photos of chicken coops built using these plans - most of these projects can be completed in one or two weekends.

Each poultry house design has :

  • Instructions for building 
  • list of the materials needed for the build
  • plans and diagrams for the measurements

 

There are SO MANY different types and styles of chicken coops out there, that you really have to know what you want to accomplish before you find the chicken coop plan that is right for you!

  • You want to understand what YOUR needs are. 

  • You need to know what the needs of your flock are going to be.

  • You have to build a chicken coop that you are comfortable having your neighbors see.
  • You have to stay within the legal limits of your area.
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