Rancho Chickacabra

RANCHO CHICKACABRA

I just finished my coop (aka Rancho Chickacabra), so I thought I would post the progress.  I spent hours perusing all the coop designs on BYC and came up with a hodge-podge design of all the elements I liked best.  I hope this helps anyone looking for ideas.  Total cost of all materials:  $440.00.  Be sure to check your lumber/hardware store's "culled" pile of lumber.  Previously cut dimensional lumber and plywood goes for pennies on the dollar and can save you a wad of cash.  The metal roofing is not included in the cost as I already had scrap pieces left over from my patio roof. 

Step 1:  Site selection and cedar clearing complete.

Step 2:  Sloping area leveled.

Step 3:  Base of run complete.  Underside wired to keep out digging predators.

Step 4:  Coop framed.

Step 5:  Coop floor and roof installed.

Step 6:  Roosting boxes (milk crates) installed.  I used the crates upright, cutting entries and egg removal areas on front and back.  I used them upright to keep the chickens from sitting on top of them and pooing all over them.  I also installed cheap tile on the floor for easy cleanout.  I plan on using the Deep Litter Method (DLM), so the removable 1x8's on the sides of the floor will allow easy removal of litter.

Side view of roosting box/crates.  Hanging on metal hooks for easy removal and cleaning.

Step 7:  Front door framed.

Step 8:  Front siding and door installed.

Step 9:  Rear siding and door installed.

Egg extraction hatch.

Step 10:  Side doors installed for easy cleanout.  The 1x8 near the floor holds in the litter, but pulls out to allow soiled litter removal.

Step 11:  Two coats of primer applied to seal wood.

Step 12:  NEON paint applied.  I wanted burnt orange and white (Longhorns), but Chloe wanted pinks and other colors similar to "Hannah Montana's" coop.  We compromised with neon . . .

Step 13:  Run framed.

Another view of run framing.

Step 15:  Interior vents also covered with wire caging.

Step 16:  Ramp installed and coop complete.

Step 17:  Wyandotte pullets are here.

 WATCH FOR THE COOP NEXT YEAR DURING AUSTIN'S FUNKY CHICKEN COOP TOUR (http://fccooptour.blogspot.com/)