I’ve recently decided to start a small flock of chickens, and I’m looking to house six hens. I’ve done some research, but I still need advice on what would be the best design for a chicken coop that provides enough space and functionality for my girls.
Space Requirements
From what I’ve read, each hen needs about 4 square feet of space inside the coop and at least 10 square feet in an outdoor run. Does anyone have recommendations for coop designs that meet these space requirements?
Features to Consider
I’m curious about features that are essential for keeping the hens comfortable and safe.
- Ventilation: How important is it to have good ventilation?
- Nesting Areas: How many nesting boxes do I really need for six hens?
- Roosting Space: What are the minimum dimensions I should aim for?
Build or Buy?
I’m torn between buying a pre-made coop and building one myself. If you’ve built your own, do you have any tips or plans to share? Or if you’ve purchased one, which product would you recommend?
Additional Advice
If anyone has lists of materials to avoid or any common pitfalls in chicken coop design, that would be super helpful too. I want to make sure I set my hens up for success from the start. Looking forward to hearing your experiences and suggestions!