Whatever chicken coop you decide to build, the main function is to protect your chickens from harm. And that means predators. These predators can be foxes, coyotes, rodents, large dogs and nasty people!
It's heartbreaking to see your chickens get hurt. And if your children are involved with raising the chickens, I don't have to tell you the grief they will feel.
If you don't know what predators are in your area, ask your neighbors. Get in touch with your local Natural Resource Departments. You must be informed. Only then will you be able to take the precautionary measures.
LOCATION
You've already decided on proper land placement but if you can place the coop within close distance to your house, so much better. If you can look outside and see the coop, you can ensure the chickens are safe.
This is where having a mobile chicken coop comes in really handy since you can easily transport it to wherever you are going to be to really keep a watchful eye on them.
FENCING
When you know the predators you'll be dealing with, you can design the proper chicken fencing. If digging animals are of concern, you must build the house low enough to the ground so they can't burrow underneath it.
If you are looking at larger predatory animals, then you're going to need a fence that's incredibly sturdy in order to keep them out effectively.
This is why having a good guide to follow will help - it's vital that you pair your needs with the variety of fences. If you don't, you may think you're protecting your chickens, but you really haven't done much but added a bit of decoration to your chicken coop.
Since you've spent money on your chickens and building a chicken coop, it's crucial to provide the best fencing to protect your feathered friends.
Click Here!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
10 Things To Look For When Buying Chickens For Your Backyard Coop
You've decided you want to keep and raise chickens in your backyard. Maybe you have your chicken coop plans all picked out and now you're going to select the chickens. So what should you look for?
The Healthy Chicken Checklist
** You'll want bright chickens who are active. They should have good posture. Not looking like they're on their last legs.
** The eyes are also the window to the soul when it comes to chickens. Look into them. The eyes should be bright with the color of the iris matching in both eyes. The eyes should not look all bubbly and wet. Yech!
** There shouldn't be any mucus in the nostrils. You can place your head to the bird's back and listen. You don't want to hear any wheezing sounds. You know, sounds like you make yourself if you have an upper respiratory infection.
** The sinuses, just above the nostrils should not be puffy. Just like you if you have a sinus infection.
** Ears should be clear of infection. If there is cheese-like matter in the ears, be warned.
** Look at the comb. Although some breeds have naturally darker-colored combs, the comb should be bright and not shriveled up.
** Check the legs. You don't want to see raised, scaly patches. Legs should be smooth.
** Look at the vent area. That's where you'd expect it to be. Where we all vent. The backside. Dirt in this area could indicate mites or lice.
** Now you should handle the bird. Each side of the breastbone should have a reasonable covering of flesh. Lighter breeds will have less coverage but the breastbone shouldn't be prominent with no flesh on the sides.
** Crests, at the top of the head, shouldn't have signs of northern fowl mite.
I know this sounds complicated but it is worth your time. Take along someone who knows chickens if you don't feel confident in the signs to look for. You don't want to get attached to your feathered friends only to find out they are ill.
In many ways it is common sense. If a bird looks vibrant and healthy, it is! Good luck.
The Healthy Chicken Checklist
** You'll want bright chickens who are active. They should have good posture. Not looking like they're on their last legs.
** The eyes are also the window to the soul when it comes to chickens. Look into them. The eyes should be bright with the color of the iris matching in both eyes. The eyes should not look all bubbly and wet. Yech!
** There shouldn't be any mucus in the nostrils. You can place your head to the bird's back and listen. You don't want to hear any wheezing sounds. You know, sounds like you make yourself if you have an upper respiratory infection.
** The sinuses, just above the nostrils should not be puffy. Just like you if you have a sinus infection.
** Ears should be clear of infection. If there is cheese-like matter in the ears, be warned.
** Look at the comb. Although some breeds have naturally darker-colored combs, the comb should be bright and not shriveled up.
** Check the legs. You don't want to see raised, scaly patches. Legs should be smooth.
** Look at the vent area. That's where you'd expect it to be. Where we all vent. The backside. Dirt in this area could indicate mites or lice.
** Now you should handle the bird. Each side of the breastbone should have a reasonable covering of flesh. Lighter breeds will have less coverage but the breastbone shouldn't be prominent with no flesh on the sides.
** Crests, at the top of the head, shouldn't have signs of northern fowl mite.
I know this sounds complicated but it is worth your time. Take along someone who knows chickens if you don't feel confident in the signs to look for. You don't want to get attached to your feathered friends only to find out they are ill.
In many ways it is common sense. If a bird looks vibrant and healthy, it is! Good luck.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Raising Chickens: How To Create A Hen-Happy Home For Your Feathered Friends
Before your chickens arrive, you want to make sure they will be happy in their new home. During the chicken coop building process, you'll want to figure out the most important chicken housing tips.
Chicken farmers can make mistakes which costs them time and frustration in the coop building process. If you have a good plan to follow, there will be less mistakes and more happiness.
Chicken housing tips:
Build A Large Enough Chicken Run
This is so important. Your chickens need to get enough exercise. This is why we're so against the industry that keeps the poor chickens caged in small quarters. (don't want to think about it) So you'll want a large chicken run so they don't feel overcrowded.
Even building a bigger run than you'll think you'll need is wonderful. They will love the extra space and any predators will be even that much farther away. Naturally, you'll have a chicken fence!
Build A Good Base
Make sure you have a good, solid base. This determines the structural integrity of your overall coop and you don't want to skimp on this.
Consider A Mobile Chicken Coop
Consider mobile chicken housing options. These are becoming more popular since then you can transport the chickens to wherever they need to be.
It will be easier to build a mobile chicken coop if you’re only planning on keeping a few birds since the smaller size is easier to move around and will be less prone to wear and tear, so be sure you’re keeping that in mind also.
Location, Location, Location
Decide on the area you'll be building the chicken coop. Don't place it in a low-lying area because water can collect around the base and cause big problems.
Set up in an area that gets a good amount of natural sunlight. That's important for getting fresh eggs on a daily basis.
So keep these points in mind. Building chicken housing doesn’t have to be overly complicated if you have a good plan to follow and take your time.
For chicken coop designs and plans to assist you in your chicken housing, Click Here!
Chicken farmers can make mistakes which costs them time and frustration in the coop building process. If you have a good plan to follow, there will be less mistakes and more happiness.
Chicken housing tips:
Build A Large Enough Chicken Run
This is so important. Your chickens need to get enough exercise. This is why we're so against the industry that keeps the poor chickens caged in small quarters. (don't want to think about it) So you'll want a large chicken run so they don't feel overcrowded.
Even building a bigger run than you'll think you'll need is wonderful. They will love the extra space and any predators will be even that much farther away. Naturally, you'll have a chicken fence!
Build A Good Base
Make sure you have a good, solid base. This determines the structural integrity of your overall coop and you don't want to skimp on this.
Consider A Mobile Chicken Coop
Consider mobile chicken housing options. These are becoming more popular since then you can transport the chickens to wherever they need to be.
It will be easier to build a mobile chicken coop if you’re only planning on keeping a few birds since the smaller size is easier to move around and will be less prone to wear and tear, so be sure you’re keeping that in mind also.
Location, Location, Location
Decide on the area you'll be building the chicken coop. Don't place it in a low-lying area because water can collect around the base and cause big problems.
Set up in an area that gets a good amount of natural sunlight. That's important for getting fresh eggs on a daily basis.
So keep these points in mind. Building chicken housing doesn’t have to be overly complicated if you have a good plan to follow and take your time.
For chicken coop designs and plans to assist you in your chicken housing, Click Here!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Building A Chicken Coop: You Don't Need To Spend A Lot Of Money
People might think you have to get a lot of expensive materials to build a chicken coop. This is not the case at all.
Since you're already being self-sufficient and "green" by just deciding to raise chickens in your backyard, you'll want to continue in the same manner. Recycling where you can!
You can use many different materials in building your poultry sheds. For example: scrap lumber, 50 gallon barrels, renovating an old shed you already have, or other recycled materials. Be creative.
Wood is the most common material used. Although the priciest, it's the most durable so it will save you money in the long run. It will withstand the elements and keep your chicks happy and safe.
Then there are the different varieties of wood. These will be considerations to have in mind while coming to your decision. If you are only keeping one or two chickens, you could probably build a smaller coop with recycled timber.
For many, building a chicken coop becomes a labor of love and nothing but the best will do! I sometimes wish there was a museum of chicken coops. The creativity of some sheds are outstanding. Some are identical miniatures of the owner's home, some look like folk art, some have tasteful colors and trim. These sheds fit in so well with the landscaping, they truly are works of art!
For plans and designs to get you started on your own labor of love, check this out...
Click Here For Chicken Coop Plans!
Since you're already being self-sufficient and "green" by just deciding to raise chickens in your backyard, you'll want to continue in the same manner. Recycling where you can!
You can use many different materials in building your poultry sheds. For example: scrap lumber, 50 gallon barrels, renovating an old shed you already have, or other recycled materials. Be creative.
Wood is the most common material used. Although the priciest, it's the most durable so it will save you money in the long run. It will withstand the elements and keep your chicks happy and safe.
Then there are the different varieties of wood. These will be considerations to have in mind while coming to your decision. If you are only keeping one or two chickens, you could probably build a smaller coop with recycled timber.
For many, building a chicken coop becomes a labor of love and nothing but the best will do! I sometimes wish there was a museum of chicken coops. The creativity of some sheds are outstanding. Some are identical miniatures of the owner's home, some look like folk art, some have tasteful colors and trim. These sheds fit in so well with the landscaping, they truly are works of art!
For plans and designs to get you started on your own labor of love, check this out...
Click Here For Chicken Coop Plans!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Raising Chickens? How To Build A Chicken Hutch
A chicken coop? A chicken hutch? What's the difference and what do you need?
That depends on the number of chickens. If you're only going to keep one or two chickens, a chicken hutch will do the job. With less money and time involved. (Others build a hutch to put in their coop!)
If you're new to raising chickens, starting with a hutch is the ideal way to begin. And so easy to find a place in your yard for your hen's new home.
Things To Know
Build A Good Sized Door
Don't have your poor chickens struggle to get through the door.
Raise Off The Ground
Make sure the hutch is up off the ground about a foot. Coops are right on the ground. Not chicken hutches. You can have a ramp for easy access for the birds.
Easy-Opening Lid
This is for you to give you good access to the chickens and for cleaning purposes. Which the hutch should be cleaned weekly.
These tips make for happy YOU and happy chickens!
For plans on how to build chicken hutches and coops, Click Here!
That depends on the number of chickens. If you're only going to keep one or two chickens, a chicken hutch will do the job. With less money and time involved. (Others build a hutch to put in their coop!)
If you're new to raising chickens, starting with a hutch is the ideal way to begin. And so easy to find a place in your yard for your hen's new home.
Things To Know
Build A Good Sized Door
Don't have your poor chickens struggle to get through the door.
Raise Off The Ground
Make sure the hutch is up off the ground about a foot. Coops are right on the ground. Not chicken hutches. You can have a ramp for easy access for the birds.
Easy-Opening Lid
This is for you to give you good access to the chickens and for cleaning purposes. Which the hutch should be cleaned weekly.
These tips make for happy YOU and happy chickens!
For plans on how to build chicken hutches and coops, Click Here!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Raising Chickens: Cleaning The Hen House
Of utmost importance in raising and tending chickens is to keep their housing clean! You want happy and healthy birds so here are some tips to keep in mind.
Dropping boards should be used and cleaned daily so your weekly cleaning chore goes easier and faster. These boards are used to collect the bird's droppings. Birds produce most of their droppings at night while roosting so if you place a board or tray under their perch, the clean up is a snap!
... Clean weekly
When building a chicken coop, make sure you have a good-sized doorway. This will make your cleaning job much easier. Having the right tools is essential. A short-handled shovel and a hand-held hoe is very useful. This way you can remove the old litter from the corners as well.
If you have more than one hen house, be sure to spray-clean the tools so you don't spread parasites between the houses.
Replace their bedding. Provide a good layer especially during winter months.
Wash their feeding troughs and water fonts regularly. If the fonts are raised off the ground, the hens won't be scratching dirt into the water. A purpose-built hopper will give them a regular supply of food without the birds being able to scatter it around.
Many things can be done for you and your hens to help you both be happier and more contented! For more advice on raising chickens, I highly recommend...
How To Raise Chickens Successfully!
Dropping boards should be used and cleaned daily so your weekly cleaning chore goes easier and faster. These boards are used to collect the bird's droppings. Birds produce most of their droppings at night while roosting so if you place a board or tray under their perch, the clean up is a snap!
... Clean weekly
When building a chicken coop, make sure you have a good-sized doorway. This will make your cleaning job much easier. Having the right tools is essential. A short-handled shovel and a hand-held hoe is very useful. This way you can remove the old litter from the corners as well.
If you have more than one hen house, be sure to spray-clean the tools so you don't spread parasites between the houses.
Replace their bedding. Provide a good layer especially during winter months.
Wash their feeding troughs and water fonts regularly. If the fonts are raised off the ground, the hens won't be scratching dirt into the water. A purpose-built hopper will give them a regular supply of food without the birds being able to scatter it around.
Many things can be done for you and your hens to help you both be happier and more contented! For more advice on raising chickens, I highly recommend...
How To Raise Chickens Successfully!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Raising Chickens: Find Your Perfect Match By Knowing Breeds
The first thing you want in raising chickens is to have healthy hens! Different breeds of chickens have been developed through careful selection over hundreds of years.
So how do you choose the best breed for you?
* Light breeds
These chickens are intelligent, alert and active. Will usually produce a good amount of eggs.
* Heavy breeds
Naturally, larger physically. More docile. Utility breeds producing eggs and meat.
* Bantams
When space is limited, bantams are the ideal choice. Some are the most attractive and charming breeds you'll find. No large poultry counterpart or are miniatures of a large breed.
Time taken in doing your research looking for the right breed will pay off in the long run. And bring the most enjoyment in raising chickens!
So how do you choose the best breed for you?
* Light breeds
These chickens are intelligent, alert and active. Will usually produce a good amount of eggs.
* Heavy breeds
Naturally, larger physically. More docile. Utility breeds producing eggs and meat.
* Bantams
When space is limited, bantams are the ideal choice. Some are the most attractive and charming breeds you'll find. No large poultry counterpart or are miniatures of a large breed.
Time taken in doing your research looking for the right breed will pay off in the long run. And bring the most enjoyment in raising chickens!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
How To Build A Custom Made Backyard Chicken Coop
If you plan on raising chickens in your backyard, a chicken coop is the first thing you must think about. You want your chickens to have a safe, cozy place to live.
Most people don't want to invest in ready made poultry sheds because of the inflated prices and delivery hassles. This is why many men and women decide to build a chicken coop of their own.
The Plan Comes First
** How many chickens will you keep?
** What size are the chickens?
** What number of nests, feeders and waterers?
** Windows are crucial for natural sunlight.
The Terrain
** You'll want a large area for the shed to fit in
** Also area for the chickens to run
** Area of direct sunlight
** Free of weeds and thick brush to forbid snakes and rodents
The Design
** Make sure you have your plans before you head off to lumber store
** Materials needed are hammer, nails, screws, concrete cinder blocks, wood (2x4), chicken wire or fence wire and insulation.
** Make sure there's enough ventilation and insulation to protect your chickens from the cold.
The benefits are many to building a backyard chicken coop. Lower cost, especially if you can acquire recycled materials or use existing materials.
You can have a custom made shed and believe me, some of the designs I've seen are incredible. Like real little doll houses. Ideal fit with landscaping!
Your backyard chicken coop will be one of your best investments! Congratulations!
Most people don't want to invest in ready made poultry sheds because of the inflated prices and delivery hassles. This is why many men and women decide to build a chicken coop of their own.
The Plan Comes First
** How many chickens will you keep?
** What size are the chickens?
** What number of nests, feeders and waterers?
** Windows are crucial for natural sunlight.
The Terrain
** You'll want a large area for the shed to fit in
** Also area for the chickens to run
** Area of direct sunlight
** Free of weeds and thick brush to forbid snakes and rodents
The Design
** Make sure you have your plans before you head off to lumber store
** Materials needed are hammer, nails, screws, concrete cinder blocks, wood (2x4), chicken wire or fence wire and insulation.
** Make sure there's enough ventilation and insulation to protect your chickens from the cold.
The benefits are many to building a backyard chicken coop. Lower cost, especially if you can acquire recycled materials or use existing materials.
You can have a custom made shed and believe me, some of the designs I've seen are incredible. Like real little doll houses. Ideal fit with landscaping!
Your backyard chicken coop will be one of your best investments! Congratulations!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Raising Chickens: Which Breed Is Right For You?
You've decided you want to raise chickens.
Now you have to determine the perfect breed of chicken. You'll do that by identifying what it is you want from your chickens.
Is it for the delicious, fresh, pure eggs? Is it for the meat? Or is it both? When people get interested in raising chickens, they are surprised to learn there are over 100 different varieties of chickens to choose from. They are grouped into 12 classes with nearly 60 breeds.
Yup, right there I was overwhelmed. I mean, who knew? But you will learn.
First, when choosing a breed, you have to think of their needs. Some birds require extra care and attention. Some examples...
Bantam Chickens:
A quarter of the size of the larger fowl.
Needs less space.
Less feed.
Used for exhibitions.
Good family pets.
Extra care need with some varieties.
Leghorn, Rhode Island Red and Wyandotte
These are the breeds if you want to see a lot of eggs.
Back later to tell more. Don't want an overload of info...
Or you can get a degree in raising chickens at... Click Here!
Now you have to determine the perfect breed of chicken. You'll do that by identifying what it is you want from your chickens.
Is it for the delicious, fresh, pure eggs? Is it for the meat? Or is it both? When people get interested in raising chickens, they are surprised to learn there are over 100 different varieties of chickens to choose from. They are grouped into 12 classes with nearly 60 breeds.
Yup, right there I was overwhelmed. I mean, who knew? But you will learn.
First, when choosing a breed, you have to think of their needs. Some birds require extra care and attention. Some examples...
Bantam Chickens:
A quarter of the size of the larger fowl.
Needs less space.
Less feed.
Used for exhibitions.
Good family pets.
Extra care need with some varieties.
Leghorn, Rhode Island Red and Wyandotte
These are the breeds if you want to see a lot of eggs.
Back later to tell more. Don't want an overload of info...
Or you can get a degree in raising chickens at... Click Here!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Chicken Coops: Take Care Of Your Chicks In The Winter
Just as we have to bundle up in the cold temperatures, please don't forget about your chickens and hens! Extreme winter weather is hazardous to their health.
The temperature of your chicken coops must be regulated by the use of lamps. You don't want your chickens freezing to death! Although chickens can withstand high temperatures, freezing temperatures are a major killer.
You may also have noticed that chickens are punctual and like to maintain regular times. They leave the coop at daybreak and check in at sunset. Make sure your coop has a secure door you can lock after they're in for the night. Then open at day break.
If you don't want to do this manually, you can get automatic doors for chicken coops which will open and close at designated times!
The temperature of your chicken coops must be regulated by the use of lamps. You don't want your chickens freezing to death! Although chickens can withstand high temperatures, freezing temperatures are a major killer.
You may also have noticed that chickens are punctual and like to maintain regular times. They leave the coop at daybreak and check in at sunset. Make sure your coop has a secure door you can lock after they're in for the night. Then open at day break.
If you don't want to do this manually, you can get automatic doors for chicken coops which will open and close at designated times!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Building A Chicken Hutch Depends On The Number Of Chickens
Are you planning on keeping only one or two chickens? Then you won't have to build a chicken coop. Building a chicken hutch is all you'll need. It will be much cheaper and take less time. If this is what you choose, a hutch is much easier to take care of.
If you're just getting started with raising chickens, this is a perfect option.
Things you need to know when building a chicken hutch
A Good Sized Door
Since you need to give your chickens easy access inside and outside of the hutch, it’s important that you make sure you’re building a good sized door.
If you build a tiny door, the chickens struggle to get in and out. You’re better off creating a larger door and then attaching a wooden door flap. This keeps them protected from predators but allows for easier access on their part.
Raised Off The Ground
Chicken coops are built right on the ground, but if you choose to build a chicken hutch you need to raise it off the ground.
Usually you'll want it raised somewhere about a foot off the ground, but don’t be overly concerned if it isn’t exactly this measurement. As long as it’s not placed right on the floor and your chickens can access it with a ramp if it is higher, that shouldn’t be a problem at all.
Easy Open Lid
Finally, the last thing is to make sure that you can easily open the lid to give you easy access to the chickens if you need it and also for cleaning purposes.
Since it is a much smaller place where your chickens are going to stay, if you aren’t cleaning it regularly you are going to run into problems with how it looks overall, so taking the time to clean it weekly is a very smart move.
If it’s harder for you to actually access the inside of the hutch though, the chances that you do decide to clean it regularly will be a great deal lower.
For more tips on taking good care of your chickens, Click Here!
If you're just getting started with raising chickens, this is a perfect option.
Things you need to know when building a chicken hutch
A Good Sized Door
Since you need to give your chickens easy access inside and outside of the hutch, it’s important that you make sure you’re building a good sized door.
If you build a tiny door, the chickens struggle to get in and out. You’re better off creating a larger door and then attaching a wooden door flap. This keeps them protected from predators but allows for easier access on their part.
Raised Off The Ground
Chicken coops are built right on the ground, but if you choose to build a chicken hutch you need to raise it off the ground.
Usually you'll want it raised somewhere about a foot off the ground, but don’t be overly concerned if it isn’t exactly this measurement. As long as it’s not placed right on the floor and your chickens can access it with a ramp if it is higher, that shouldn’t be a problem at all.
Easy Open Lid
Finally, the last thing is to make sure that you can easily open the lid to give you easy access to the chickens if you need it and also for cleaning purposes.
Since it is a much smaller place where your chickens are going to stay, if you aren’t cleaning it regularly you are going to run into problems with how it looks overall, so taking the time to clean it weekly is a very smart move.
If it’s harder for you to actually access the inside of the hutch though, the chances that you do decide to clean it regularly will be a great deal lower.
For more tips on taking good care of your chickens, Click Here!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Building A Chicken Coop: How To Find Good Shed Plans
Building a chicken coop involves planning like everything else. # 1 is finding good chicken shed plans to follow. Don't overlook the value that shed plans have in guiding you through the process in order to get the exact results you want.
Here's what you need to know about chicken coops.
Building Materials
There are a wide variety of building supplies available. If you can get your hands on used materials, you'll save yourself a lot of money. And boost the results you really want to achieve.
Landscaping
Spend time landscaping the area you plan to build on. Chicken shed plans will give you instructions on what areas are ideal so put thought into this important consideration. Watch for low elevation that could have flooding problems.
Also have your coop in area that gets the most amount of sunlight so your chickens lay eggs regularly.
Whatever you do, don’t build in the shade.
Don't Cramp The Chickens' Style!
You don't like feeling boxed in and claustrophobic. Neither do chickens. Make sure your shed plans give you a specific idea of your building dimension. Cramp their style and they will not lay eggs. And I don't blame them!
When you determine how many chickens you plan to keep, the next step is going to be figuring out the dimensions of your chicken coop.
Build A Durable Fence
Crucial! You want to keep your chickens safe from predators. Build a fence that will stand the test of time. Be sure you’re building this fence both tall enough and deep enough into the ground, as these are the main points that will keep the animals out. Click Here For Chicken Coop Building Plans!
Here's what you need to know about chicken coops.
Building Materials
There are a wide variety of building supplies available. If you can get your hands on used materials, you'll save yourself a lot of money. And boost the results you really want to achieve.
Landscaping
Spend time landscaping the area you plan to build on. Chicken shed plans will give you instructions on what areas are ideal so put thought into this important consideration. Watch for low elevation that could have flooding problems.
Also have your coop in area that gets the most amount of sunlight so your chickens lay eggs regularly.
Whatever you do, don’t build in the shade.
Don't Cramp The Chickens' Style!
You don't like feeling boxed in and claustrophobic. Neither do chickens. Make sure your shed plans give you a specific idea of your building dimension. Cramp their style and they will not lay eggs. And I don't blame them!
When you determine how many chickens you plan to keep, the next step is going to be figuring out the dimensions of your chicken coop.
Build A Durable Fence
Crucial! You want to keep your chickens safe from predators. Build a fence that will stand the test of time. Be sure you’re building this fence both tall enough and deep enough into the ground, as these are the main points that will keep the animals out. Click Here For Chicken Coop Building Plans!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Building A Chicken Coop: 4 Tips For Happy and Productive Chickens
Building A Chicken Coop!
You've decided to get a few chickens. Of course, you want the proper place to house them in. You want your chickens to be happy or you won't see them laying eggs on a regular basis.
So take the time to think of these things which will save you money and time in the long run.
*** Windows
Windows are the primary light source for your chicken coop. You have to plan before you start to build because you want them in the correct position. Cut the windows in the walls before building the coop. Think which direction will give the most natural sunlight.
*** Predators
Unfortunately there are predators and this will influence the type of design. Whatever plan you use, make sure it addresses the issue so your chickens are safe.
*** Primary Light Source
If you live in a location that doesn’t get a lot of natural sunlight, you'll have to think about wiring in some electrical light. Chickens do not respond well when they are not getting enough light, whether it’s sunlight or electrical light, so find a way to make sure your coop is well lit.
Electrical light can get to be rather expensive so usually it’s better to avoid this if you can, but in some cases that just isn’t possible.
*** Ventilation
This is crucial! For your chickens and for you! The air must stay fresh. Your chickens won't be any happier in a smelly coop than you would be. Make sure the plans for building a chicken coop address this important issue.
Click Here For The Best Chicken Coop Designs!
You've decided to get a few chickens. Of course, you want the proper place to house them in. You want your chickens to be happy or you won't see them laying eggs on a regular basis.
So take the time to think of these things which will save you money and time in the long run.
*** Windows
Windows are the primary light source for your chicken coop. You have to plan before you start to build because you want them in the correct position. Cut the windows in the walls before building the coop. Think which direction will give the most natural sunlight.
*** Predators
Unfortunately there are predators and this will influence the type of design. Whatever plan you use, make sure it addresses the issue so your chickens are safe.
*** Primary Light Source
If you live in a location that doesn’t get a lot of natural sunlight, you'll have to think about wiring in some electrical light. Chickens do not respond well when they are not getting enough light, whether it’s sunlight or electrical light, so find a way to make sure your coop is well lit.
Electrical light can get to be rather expensive so usually it’s better to avoid this if you can, but in some cases that just isn’t possible.
*** Ventilation
This is crucial! For your chickens and for you! The air must stay fresh. Your chickens won't be any happier in a smelly coop than you would be. Make sure the plans for building a chicken coop address this important issue.
Click Here For The Best Chicken Coop Designs!
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