Buildings For Chickens

Chicken coops can be built in a bewildering range of designs. These range from simple A-frames that enclose a rectangular area of ground to coops that resemble small houses, with barn-like doors, widows, pitched roofs and a wire-fenced outdoor area. Alternatively, existing buildings can be adapted to house chickens. Whatever the design of coop used, it must offer its inhabitants protection from the elements, space and safety.

  1. Space

    • According to the website Making a Chicken Coop, large chickens should be allowed between 3 and 4 square feet of space each. Smaller breeds such as bantams need about 2 square feet of floor space each. If the chickens are confined for much of the day or will over-winter in the coop, double these figures. The more space the birds get the better. Increasing the amount of available floor space will often resolve negative behaviors such as pecking and general aggressiveness.

    Ventilation

    • Chicken coops need at least three windows to ensure proper ventilation. Good air-flow helps rid the coop of foul smells and prevent the build-up of ammonia from the birds' feces. Proper ventilation will also help dry the coop's lining. Windows are essential in warmer climes to prevent the coop from becoming too hot during the day. Windows and ventilation flaps should be made large enough so that they can provide access points for cleaning the coop.

    Portability

    • Chicken coops need to be portable. This ensures that the chicken's outside space is varied and that the chickens can be moved if the land becomes unsuitable. When placing the chicken coop, choose areas that are not at risk from flooding or strong winds. If the top of the coop isn't secure, keep the coop away from trees and objects that potential predators could climb. Orient the coop so that the sun shines directly through the front door to help dry out the lining and warm the interior.

    Nesting Area

    • Chicken coops should contain a nesting area that is dry and dark. These are usually small rooms that can be entered from the main coop. Most laying chickens like to roost so allow one nest box for every four or five hens. Each bird should have between 6 and 10 inches of roosting space, though the more the better. Simple nest boxes can be made using plastic tubs lined with straw or wood shavings.