subject: Factors To Evaluate When Selecting Chicken Coops On The Web [print this page] An increasing number of urban dwellers are choosing to keep chickens in their backyards. It can be a very rewarding hobby and people boast that the eggs produced by their own hens are far superior to those bought from the supermarket. To support this growing trend, many websites offer a variety of flat-packed chicken coops for sale. When buying a coop, there as several points to take into account in addition to the price. You should consider the design, size and construction materials as well as important details such as ventilation and lighting.
Features included in the design of a chicken coop can help to keep your birds healthy and add to your convenience. A nesting area that is raised off the ground has multiple advantages. It prevents rising damp, discourages vermin infestations and provides a shady area for chickens below. A tray beneath the nesting area that you can pull out to clean makes this chore less daunting. A nesting box attached to the side of the coop means you can check for eggs simply by lifting the lid.
It's important to choose the right size coop for the number of chickens you intend to keep. A general rule of thumb is six square feet of covered space per laying hen, including both the nesting area and the run. To house four chickens in comfort, you should be looking for a coop that has a floor area of at least 24 square feet.
A coop made from top quality materials will be sturdy enough to protect the chickens from wind and weather as well as predators. The wood panels should be at least half an inch thick and treated with a water-repellent wood preserver. The sides of the run should be made of galvanized steel wire.
The hen house must be adequately ventilated to allow air to circulate among the nesting birds. This will prevent the build-up of carbon dioxide and ammonia, reduce odors and allow excess moisture to evaporate. Air vents should be located above the nesting area to avoid subjecting the chickens to cold drafts.
Sunlight entering the coop will help to keep it warm and dry and encourage the birds to lay more eggs. At least one window which looks into the nesting area is essential. Glazed or Perspex windows that can be opened in summer for extra ventilation and closed in winter to preserve warmth are ideal.
When comparing the prices of chicken coops for sale, be sure to take the materials and features into account. A well-designed, sturdy coop which will protect your hens from predators and increase their length and quality of life will cost more than a basic model. Keep in mind that a compromise on quality at the outset can lead to further expenses in the long run.
