subject: Building a Chicken Coop?: Consider these 7 things [print this page] People today are choosing to raise chickens in their backyards for a variety of reasons. The main ones being- meat, eggs, pets or exhibition - or mix of these. Chickens need a home that is safe and secure. Choosing the right home for the flock is essential.
Here are several questions you should ask:
(1) How much space is available? Every other decision that is made hinges on answering this question. Remember that the more space the better.
Something else to think about in the section is the location of the coop. If the chickens are being raised in an urban area, neighbors will also appreciate being taken into consideration.
(2) What is the reasoning for getting chickens? Different chickens breeds have different temperaments and are suited for different purposes. Make sure to conduct a lot of research on the breeds under consideration to match the best chicken for the circumstances.
(4)What are the best Poultry for the geographic area? If wintering in is a consideration then it is advisable to choose a breed of chicken that will weather the winter better. Chickens with small combs tend to winter better.
(5) Is the coop going to be Portable or stationary?
The chicken coops available can be mind boggling.Depending on what available space a portable chicken coop or chicken tractor may be the answer. A portable coop will allow you to move the chickens around the yard giving them a fresh supply of grass daily. This will also give you the option to wheel the chickens into a heated garage in the winter.
(6)Purchasing a pre-made coop or building? Chicken coops purchased retail can be expensive.It is generally way less expensive to build one instead. A home-made coop can be customized to whatever your flock requires. A home made coop also gives you the option to customize protection based on local predators.
(7) Will the chickens be free range or kept in a run? chickens are happiest if they have access to the outside to scratch around and get fresh air. Some sort of outdoor enclosure or run should also be considered when calculating the amount of room required beyond just the coop.
