Did you know that 93% of the most populated cities in this country allow backyard chickens? Depending on local city ordinances, even urban farmers can have a chicken or two. Chicken ownership has seen a surge in popularity in the last couple of years, as more and more people realize the benefits of having fresh eggs.
If you are thinking about getting a chicken, now is the perfect time to learn more about how to house them. Would you like to know what to consider when buying chicken coops? Check out this handy chicken coop guide to get you started.
Chicken Coop Goals
There are three main goals that you should remember when choosing the best chicken coop for your hens. The coop should shelter them from harsh weather conditions, give them a cozy and hygienic nesting place, and protect them from predators. Invest in one that has all of these things, and your hens will reward you with high-quality eggs.
Size Considerations
When people are looking for chicken coop tips, one of the most common questions is about sizing. The size of your chicken coop depends on how many chickens you plan to house. Plan to have one chicken nesting box per 4-5 hens, and leave enough room for them to be able to walk around comfortably inside.
Light and Ventilation
When you are designing the coop, don’t forget to add lighting and make sure there is ample ventilation for the chickens. Pick a coop that has a window or two as well.
Placement
Where you put your chicken coop in your yard is key. It should be out of the hot sun but be located somewhere that is protected from strong winds if you live somewhere that gets very cold in the winter.
Mobile vs. Stationary
When it comes to chicken coops, you can buy a mobile or stationary option. Mobile coops can be moved by hand or a tractor, while stationary options are permanent. Many people find mobile ones beneficial because they can give parts of the yard a break from scratching while rotating the coop’s location.
DIY Chicken Coops
If you want to build a home for your chickens yourself, it is possible to get chicken coop plans online. You can start by looking at plans for a 4×8 chicken coop and see if it meets your needs.
Choose the Right Coop
Now that you’ve learned about chicken coops, you can make an informed decision about which kind is the best match for your chickens. Before you order one or start a DIY build, figure out how many chickens you are going to have so that you can have the right-sized coop. Put the coop in the best spot in your backyard to protect your chickens.
There are three main goals that you should remember when choosing the best chicken coop for your hens. The coop should shelter them from harsh weather conditions, give them a cozy and hygienic nesting place, and protect them from predators. Invest in one that has all of these things, and your hens will reward you with high-quality eggs.
Did you find this article about chicken coops helpful? Want to learn more useful tips? Then check out the rest of this site!
