Chickens are a fairly simple animal to raise and their benefits are well worth the minimal effort required, even if you only have space for a small chicken coop. One area that you should give particular attention to is the construction of the coop. Here are a few considerations and recommendations.

Step 1

A chicken coop’s first design priority should be keeping the chickens safe from predators. Chickens are vulnerable to many animals that can burrow, climb, jump and all around outsmart a shabbily built small chicken coop. Coops must protect from all these forms of attack by fully enclosing the chickens with solid fencing and overhead protection. Make sure the fence itself is made of the proper materials also or some animals will simple attack right through the fence.

Step 2

Rats, though not predators of the chickens themselves are quick little thieves when it comes to fresh eggs. Rats will also damage the coop itself and make it possible for predators to get in. Make sure all possible holes where rats can enter are well plugged. A good defense against rats is the use of solid flooring materials. Burying fence will also help keep rats from burrowing underneath and should be done to protect against predators such as dogs and foxes anyway. Any sign of rat infestation must be dealt with immediately, but remember that it’s easier to prevent them than it is to get rid of them later.

Step 3

Chicken coops should be warm to prompt hens to lay eggs. Any drafts, especially in cold weather, will make the hens uncomfortable and reduce their egg production. If you plan to raise chicks, warmth is critical and they will die if not kept at a proper temperature.

Step 4

The small chicken coop needs some sort of roost for the hens to sleep upon. A few poles connected with boards will do the trick. Make sure the edges of the boards are slightly rounded so the chickens can better grasp them. You should plan for about 8 inches of roosting space for each adult hen. Intersperse nesting boxes among the roost to encourage the hens to lay eggs.

Step 5

Be sure to give your chickens sufficient room. More room means happier, healthier chickens that will lay more eggs. About 3 square feet per chicken should do just fine. Don’t forget to figure in room for water and feeds troughs as well.

These simple tips should be sufficient to get you started building the perfect small chicken coop for your birds. Do a good job and they will thank you for it in the form of lots of fresh eggs. I also recommend you take a look at “Building A Chicken Coop” – it’s a great cost effective guide for getting started.

Originally posted 2010-03-28 15:03:00. Republished by Blog Post Promoter