Some people may have a couple of chickens that they want to build a house for while others have several that requires an adequate coop where they can lay eggs. Small chicken coops can be built to accommodate anywhere from two to twenty chickens while there are also medium and large sized coops for much larger flocks.
The size of chicken coop you should get depends on the number of chickens you are going to be raising and you should never rely on small chicken coops to hold too many chickens. Without adequate room, chickens are prone to health problems and they are also less likely to produce as many eggs, which is the reason most people start raising chickens in the first place.
A chicken coop is necessary regardless of how many chickens you have. It will protect the birds from predators as well as from the elements and will provide them with a dry, comfortable place to roost and to nest.
Where you put the coop is also important. It needs to be up off the ground in an area with adequate drainage. This prevents dampness of the floor and also helps prevent pests from coming in. Many chicken farmers recommend the use of a concrete floor to resist moisture and provide a better barrier against pests as well.
There are many different designs for small chicken coops available online or, if you choose, you can design your own. With either option, you need to know the requirements for the adequate space for the chickens in order for them to get exercise and have free movement. You also need to know the minimum specifications for the area needed for them to nest and roost.
For perching, birds need six to ten inches of perch space each. Nest boxes need to be a minimum of fifteen inches high, fifteen inches wide by 11 1/8 inches deep. Allow for one nesting box for every three chickens. Small chicken coops need to have the same dimensions for perches and nesting boxes as do the larger coops.
Many people choose to make their own chicken coops rather than purchase those that are pre-built for two reasons. First, they can decide on the features that they want and put them in the positions and sizes they want. Second, even small chicken coops can cost more than a thousand dollars! For those who are interested in providing comfort for only a few chickens, that is a hefty price tag!
When you make your own coop, you can find many plans online that provide you with dimensions, step-by-step instructions, and the number of chickens the finished product will accommodate. Since small chicken coops are often used in the backyard for those with little room, choosing a style that has a run underneath the building is a good idea. This gives chickens access to the outdoors without the risk of predators endangering them.
Another feature you might consider with your coop plan is making one that is portable. Small chicken coops can be moved to different areas of the ground so that they have access to new grass and more bugs whenever you move them to a new area.
When choosing housing for only a couple of birds, remember that they still have the same needs as larger flocks and that includes fresh air, adequate ventilation, and plenty of light as well as sufficient room for nesting and for perching. With many different plans available, you can choose one that is economical to make and that will meet the needs of your chickens without you having to sacrifice comfort for money!
, one size does not fit all. Just as every house and family is different, so are the coops people decide to use to house their poultry. There are also many styles and amenities to choose to customize the area you wish to provide for your birds. However, there are a few basics each chicken coop must have.