This is a great coop and run set-up. Dimensions and build instructions - even generalized ones - would help someone duplicate or adapt it for themselves. That may well rocket this article into a must-read!
Lookin' good, so far! Where are you located? You may want to plug/cover some of those lower slat openings - the ones at or below perch height. If you get cold winters, those will allow drafts to come in under your birds. If your area doesn't get that cold, those slats can let your biddies get wet in a blowing rain.
All in all, this looks really nice ... and cute!
What a GREAT idea! It took a boater to find the perfect answer to window props that won't slam shut in the breeze. Text is good - Pictures are great! An easy, inexpensive and adjustable fix for ventilation issues. I LOVE it!
There is a lot of information here - but stick with it, it's all good! Descriptions on everything from calibrating thermometers to removing hatchlings ... and lots in between. This is a very good read for anyone incubating eggs - even if you've done it before!
This is a great set-up and the documentation is good, too. The pics and minimal text are clear and easy to follow ... but the chuckles and smiles that flow naturally along with the read are the best!
Thanks!
This is a great set of pictures documenting the building of a very nice coop and run. What specific modifications did you decide to do after that first winter?
We want to change the entry door for the chickens into the coop. Currently it slides in a track but it's constantly getting stuck and bedding, etc. keep building up in the track. Thinking about a hinged door that we can lock at night and possibly a screen door for summer. We're still thinking on what we would like to do and don't have any exact design ideas just yet. :)
This is a great narrative - well organized, clear and well written. It's also a pretty easy read, especially for those just staring out or simply looking for some perspective on a making their chicken-raising hobby a little more (okay - a LOT more!) intensive.
This is excellent - well thought out and well documented in both text and pictures. The nod to our service people is a wonderful bonus. The only thing I would add/adjust is to replace the chicken wire (poultry fence) with hardware cloth. Chicken wire is twisted, not welded, so it stretches when predators dig at it, opening enough for a raccoon, opossum or small fox to get in. It also tends to rust over time, especially in areas that soak and drain frequently.
All in all, this is e GREAT build! It makes me want a guard shack!
Thanks for the compliments and your attention to detail. My original plan was to use hardware cloth everywhere I mentioned poultry netting. Good catch. It came down to money. I do fully intend to re-do at least the window areas with machine cloth, because that is the stronghold. But 125+' x 2' would take a chunk out of my wallet ain't there to take right now. I agree the tougher stuff will do better, and your observation is noted.
Great article - and GREAT pictures! I particularly love the one of the two new babies peeking out of their box. How lucky you were t get a pair, first time out!
Thanks for reminding everyone that you don't need to start new and high-dollar with your birds. Recycled and reused bargains can be had almost anywhere!
What a great system! It's perfect for nasty Mid-Atlantic winters in the US - and has the added bonus of keeping the water moving in the summer, which should eliminate the mosquito larvae issue. I love it!
This is excellent! A great idea, simple and inexpensive modifications made with readily available materials. I LOVE the plastic canvas idea! I'll be adding that to my own 'bator floor, next hatch.
This is a very helpful article. It not only gives useful, accurate information, but cites the study sources, as well. It's well written and easy-to-read - a real bonus in my opinion! And it doesn't hurt hat the duckling pic is absolutely aDORable! I may eventually have to give in to DD's request for a duck (or two or three or ...,) so this is very useful info to have. Thanks!
I love the start to this story. It makes me want to stick around to see how things develop. I have to say that I'm impressed with the strength of our new farmer. It's a good sign when you can avoid "Chicken Math" on the first purchase!
Cn we see your new babies and watch them grow along with you? We LOVE pictures!
Really good instructions on treating a nasty wound, but totally applicable to most minor ones. The bonus here is an extremely basic first-aid kit list. Well done!