Fundamentals to Consider When Building a Chicken Coop
Fundamentals to Consider When Building a Chicken Coop
Fundamentals you should consider when building either fixed or movable chicken coops.
So you’ve decided try your hand in backyard chicken raising. You have the necessary space, your family (the wife and kids) are sold on the idea as well and the next step is to prepare in building a chicken coop for your new pets.
For a successful chicken coop building project which would undoubtedly include the wife and the kids, follow these simple steps to guarantee your project’s success.
Visual Appeal and Design
Make your chicken coop decorative. Yes, why not? Why settle for an ordinary-looking chicken coop when you can paint it in gorgeous colors to make it complement your home and the backyard?
Remember, unless you live in the rural areas where your nearest neighbors are several miles away from you the chicken coop you will build would be clearly visible to the entire neighborhood. Make sure the chicken coop you build will not be an eyesore or be considered as a defacement to your property.
Foresight
This may sound weird but foresight is an important fundamental to consider in building a chicken coop. One of the chores you have to perform after you have built a chicken coop for your feathered pets is to clean the coop!
Imagine your frustration while performing your monthly chicken coop cleaning duties if the water does not drain from the coop! When you start to build your chicken coop, undoubtedly all posts will be of the same size to ensure a flat floor level. However, it may be wise to have either the front or rear posts half-an-inch or an inch shorter so that when you hose the chicken coop to clean out all the gunk, water would drain naturally towards the back or the rear.
To prevent puddles from forming either at the front or back of the chicken coop, it is prudent to put some gravel in the area to prevent puddles.
Security and Protection from Elements and Predators
Your chickens will undoubtedly need protection from the weather and predators as well. This is one of the fundamental considerations you have to take into account when constructing a chicken, regardless of the size.
Make sure that you build a chicken house that is wind-proof but well ventilated. How? Make sure your chicken coop has windows that can be opened or closed as the need arise and that they are flush against each other. The doors should have as little clearance as from the bottom in order to prevent wind from coming in as well.
In positioning your chicken, ensure that it is covered from the wind while being airy at the same time. In constructing the fences for the chicken runs, make sure that the fencing material is buried at least 12 inches below ground level to prevent predators from burrowing underneath and getting to your flock.
Proper Ventilation
Protecting your flock from the elements is necessary but keeping them inside with proper ventilation is also a must! Otherwise, they may suffer from ammonia build up due to their droppings!
The goal is to keep them dry yet properly ventilated to enable your birds to handle cold climates!
Proper Positioning
Make sure that the chicken windows face southwards. This ensures that the flock will receive a good source of sunlight and warmth plus stable source of ventilation during hot weather.
Strategic Placement of Feed and Water Bowls
You have to take extra care in positioning your chicken’s water bowls and feeders because of their scratching habits. Make sure the feeders and waterers are positioned about the height of the chicken’s back so that they can’t make a mess out of their food and water. Ensure that the waterers and feeders are replenished on a daily basis.
Building A Chicken Coop
A guide on building your own coop.
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By Bob Keene Published: 12/30/2008 |
