How to Build All Wire Chicken Cages

Housing your chickens in metal cages is cheaper than building or purchasing a hen house. Metal cages ensure that eggs are kept clean and safe from scavengers. The cage protects the flock from wild predators and limits the spread of chicken-related bacteria. Building the cages yourself allows you to customize it to your needs. This wire chicken cage is sturdy enough to hang from the ceiling, or it can be set on a stand. It also is safe for chicks that are too big to squeeze through the holes. This model can accommodate four chickens with 1.5 cubic feet each.

Things You'll Need

  • 12- or 14-gauge 1x1 or 1x2 galvanized metal mesh
  • Wire cutter
  • 2x4 board
  • Hammer
  • Wire clips
  • Clip pliers
  • Rubber tubing
  • Feeders
  • Nesting boxes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut two pieces from the galvanized wire using the wire cutters. The first section is 32 x 104 inches. The second section is 84 x 46 inches.

    • 2

      Measure and mark the first wire 2 inches from one narrow end. Mark each of the following points, always measuring from the previous measurement: 46 inches, 24 inches, 46 inches and 24 inches.

    • 3

      Measure and mark the second wire in the same manner, using the following measurements: 2 inches, 24 inches, 32 inches, 24 inches and 2 inches.

    • 4

      Place the edge of a 2x4 along the 2-inch mark. Use a hammer to bend the wire in a straight line along the board. Repeat at each marking on both wire sections.

    • 5

      Place wire clips on the first section where the end of the section overlaps the 2-inch fold. Squeeze the clips tight with clip pliers.

    • 6

      Fit the second folded section into the first section. The floor area will be doubled.

    • 7

      Attach all the edges and corners of the second piece to the first piece using wire clips and clip pliers.

    • 8

      Secure the two layers of flooring with several clips at intervals throughout the floor. This will prevent the hens from getting their toes caught between the two layers.

    • 9

      Use a wire cutter to remove a 12 x 12 inch square from the lower center area of one side. Cut a separate 14 x 14 section of leftover wire to place over the opening and serve as a door. Attach the door on one side with wire clips to serve as hinges. Use rope or a latch to close the door on its other side. Bend all sharp points back.

    • 10

      Cut a slit lengthwise in 12 inches of rubber tubing. Slide it onto the lower section of the door opening to prevent the caretaker's arm from getting scratched.

    • 11

      Measure the size of your feeders. Cut holes in the cage that will accommodate the feeders. Attach them to the outside with wire clips. Place tubing over the cut areas of the cage to prevent injury to the hens when eating and drinking.

    • 12

      Install nesting boxes or roosts inside the cage with wire. Stock it with food, water and bedding, and the coop is ready for hens.