Old barn as chicken coop?

[LoganTW]

Hi guys - boy has it been a while! I was wondering if I can use an old barn as my chicken coop? or if somehow it would be too big for them or something. That's about it so... Bye





Logan

 

[Michael OShay]

The size will not be a problem. As chickens go, the more room the better. Just make sure that it is predator proof, leak free, and draft free in cold weather.

 

[chooks4life]

^X2. Also if during times of heavy rain it ends up soaked through leaks or runoff, that's an issue, and if it's damp even during dry weather that's also an issue but I'd guess being a barn it wouldn't be.

The best cages for their health tend to let a lot of sunshine in and have very good ventilation. The darker and more restricted in airflow the worse. But there's a difference between good ventilation and drafts, albeit a bit of a subtle one.

I'd personally put lime down, all over the ground, before I put them in, to help 'sweeten' the soil and kill parasite eggs and pathogens. Hydrated agricultural lime can be very helpful in assisting with flock health.

Best wishes.