The basics of choosing Chicken Coop Plans!
A chicken coop is a building where chickens are stored. The interiors of chicken coops usually have nest boxes for the purpose of egg laying and perches for the birds to sleep on. The interior and exterior floor is mostly covered with a material to contain the chicken waste and to allow easier cleanup of the chicken coop. The material used could be straw or wood chips.
There are a number of chicken coop plans. A chicken coop is generally accompanied by a run, which is the outside area for the chickens. The scope of the run varies depending on local conditions and the surrounding environment, the type of predator that might be looking for a free chicken meal and anything that could be a threat to the chickens living in the chicken coop.
There are 3 tips you should know before choosing chicken coop plans:
1- Build an Easy Maintenance Coop: It is important to clean your chicken coop on a regular basis. By planning ahead and building your chicken coop with ease and maintenance in mind, you can prepare for this. One way is to slope the bottom floor so that it points downward towards the main front door. This ensures the flow of water out of the coop instead of puddling at the center.
2- Ensure to have enough space: Chickens do not like to live in cramped situations. They sometimes resort to pecking or even cannibalism due to inadequate space. Make sure you remember to leave 4-5 square feet per chicken. You don’t want to realize your mistake after building the coop. Set your measurements properly and do not leave any space for mistakes.
3- Make the chicken coop safe: Remember to protect the coop from predators and severe weather. To protect the coop from weather, build it on a higher level and facing the sun. The high location will protect the coop from flooding during severe rainfall. The sun will dry the coop faster during wet seasons.
It is not a wise decision to use wire mesh. Even the smallest predators can chew through the high gauge wire and harm the chickens. Make sure you get the commercial grade stuff. It may cost you more but will prove its worth in the long run. You may also want to consider cementing the floor to prevent snakes and other predators from digging under the ground and coop walls. But it is a better option to use chicken wired floor so that the chickens can enjoy pecking at worms and small rodents for a quick meal.
Hope these 3 Tips help you in choosing between the many chicken coop plans available.
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