Multi level run?

[wleigh1021]

Has anyone "created" extra space in their run by making it multi level (other than a roost)? I am helping my neighbor plan her new coop using an existing shed but there's not a ton of space for the run so I'm trying to think of ways to get creative.

 

[micstrachan]

I haven’t done this, but I think it’s a neat idea! I would probably make one side with a hinged or removeable gate for cleaning or removing litter.

 

[Aunt Angus]

I have! It's not a formal level, just a big shelf, really, with a ramp leading up to it, like a deck. The girls love it! Here's a pic. You could do this with a bigger "shelf," I would think.

 

[Aunt Angus]

Ooh! She could do a big poop board kind of thing for easier cleaning. That might be pretty cool.

Keep us updated. I'd love to see what you come up with so I can steal your ideas.... er... I mean get inspiration!

 

[21hens-incharge]

I have screwed a piece of plywood to a couple sawhorses. They used both the platform and the lovely shade it created below.

 

[N F C]

What about a "chunnel" where a tunnel is created out of fencing so the flock has more room to explore the yard?

 

[wleigh1021]

unfortunately chunnels aren't an option due to bears and coyote in our area, so it needs to be something sturdy that electric fence can be hooked up to. Sorry, I should have said that to begin with. I'm thinking a deck too with maybe sand or dirt on top with a lip on hinges to hold it in but make it easy to clean? My concern with just doing more roost space is that you make the birds more susceptible to cocci and worms still? They will be allowed free range time but not in the winter due to hawks, and only when they can be watched due to other predators. If not the whole deck filled in with dirt, then maybe make a couple small decks big enough to store some plastic bins with dirt baths and roosts in between for them to walk around on?..... hmmmm....

 

[Lady Lionheart]

I wanted to do another level in my run, but decided that I'd be happy with this jungle gym. Good luck with whatever you decide to do!

 

[wleigh1021]

I like the spiral staircase! Here's just an idea I came up with real quick. 3 corner decks with lips to hold a corner shaped litter box for dust baths surrounded by 2x8 lumber for them to walk along. this would be about 3-4' up from the ground depending on the degree of slope on the roof. viewing as birds' eye.

 

[aart]

My concern with just doing more roost space is that you make the birds more susceptible to cocci and worms still?

Nah, as long as bedding in run is good.

I'd go with roosts and movable platforms, rather than a 'second floor'.
Anything bigger than a roost will need to be cleaned and may get in the way of snow removal.
How big is the run?
Will it have a solid roof?

Here's my set up for when I had chicks out there, most stuff on the ground was removed in winter.