Chicken Coops

Buying a chicken coop for a backyard can be an overwhelming task, but there are ways to make the process simpler. Owning chickens has countless benefits, and keeping the birds happy and safe is the best way to reap the rewards. Chicken coops should be warm, roomy and dry. If a coop is constructed well, it will be durable, weather-proof and long-lasting.

A chicken coop can be a movable or permanent structure. Permanent structures are ideal for those who own a large amount of chickens and need bigger enclosures. Movable coops have wheels for easy transferring, and they provide more options. They can be relocated if the initial placement is not ideal. They can be moved in inclement weather as well.

A raised chicken coop is often the best choice for those with space constraints. These houses can be built onto vertically rather than horizontally. Raised chicken coops also protect the birds from predators. To ensure the chickens are completely safeguarded, it is a good idea to choose screening that has openings no bigger than a quarter of an inch.

Ventilation is an important factor to consider when buying a chicken coop. Proper cross-ventilation will provide the chickens with fresh air, which is necessary for their respiratory systems. The weather conditions in an area will determine what type of ventilation is needed. Hot and dry locales require coops that have multiple large window openings.

Space is also an important consideration when it comes to chicken coops. In general, providing three square feet of space for each chicken is the appropriate guideline. This size is suitable for chickens that are given free range to roam at different times of the day. For those who have unlimited space to work with, the more room that is created the better.

Food and water should be easily accessible to every chicken in the coop. A decent chicken coop will have a food tray attachment that is approximately six inches off the coop floor. Watering bowls should be at the same level as the food trays. Many coops come with reservoirs for food and water that continually dispense the amounts needed.

Chicken coops that are easy to clean are the best choices. Unsanitary living conditions can lead to health problems for chickens and their eggs. A chicken coop that has removable trays under it is ideal. The droppings collect in the trays and can be discarded easily. Metal and plastic enclosures are easiest to clean, however, pressure-treated wood is also suitable.

An important aspect of owning chickens is nesting. Nesting allows chicken owners to enjoy the benefits of caring for these generous birds. If a hen is comfortable, egg laying will come easy. Look for nesting boxes that are at least 18 square inches. It should be raised off the floor and somewhat cordoned off from the rest of the coop.

In nature, chickens enjoy roosting in high environments. A quality chicken coop should have a roosting seat that is at least one foot off the coop floor. Every bird in the coop should have access to a roosting area. The seat should be at least a foot wide and deep. Chicken coops that are not large enough for roosting areas should be avoided.

A chicken coop can be purchased pre-made, or it can be built from a kit. There are many plans available for those who can handle do-it-yourself projects. Some kits allow for add-ons or accessories that enhance the coop’s performance. It takes some research to create the most ideal coop from scratch. Chicken houses range from simple and functional to elaborate and complex. It is up to the chicken owner to determine what type of coop will be best.

Raising chickens can be fun and beneficial. Chicken owners who put time and effort into buying a chicken coop will have healthy, happy birds. The amount of space available, the number of chickens and personal preferences determine what type of coop is necessary. There is a vast array of models and sizes to choose from, so it is important to acknowledge any potential restrictions. Chicken coops that are designed solely for the comfort, safety and health of the birds will provide endless benefits.