96 gallon trash can as coop?

[sumu]

I read where someone used a 96 gallon Rubbermaid trash can as a coop. Is this possible? How is this done? Is this big enough?

 

[SunnyAlberta]

There are a couple of members here who live in very mild climates who simply put plastic totes or garbage cans on their sides and use them as coops for free-ranging chickens. This wouldn't work in my climate. What is your winter weather like? You could try making a covered coop like this






Or try this:
http://blossomsnblunders.blogspot.ca/2011/05/chicken-coop-tour.html

Some people have made coops for two chickens out of a composter like this Earth Machine that has a door already
http://www.greencalgary.org/images/uploads/EarthMachine.jpg

 

[sumu]

I'm in Michigan and am concerned about the winters. I have been considering using a horizontal Rubbermaid storage shed, but don't know how to cut and install doors and windows.

 

[Achickenwrangler#1]

I think ventilation would be an issue, chickens do very well in cold weather, they don't do well in damp cold areas, they need to stay dry so their down coats work well and have no frost.

 

[SunnyAlberta]

You'd definitely have to add vents to any of the plastic items.

 

[SunnyAlberta]

I have cut totes using a utility knife. A lighter will soften rough cut edges. Some people suggest a soldering iron or dremel.

 

[sumu]

I would of course install a bathroom fan of some sort - but I don't think I would go with a trash can. I did see some horizontal storage sheds that might work better and are roomier. I have a spot by an outdoor plug for light and heat, but it's in a protected part of the patio against the house with a southern exposure. It's also near a hose so I can clean out the coop more easily and thoroughly in the summer. Also, these sheds are completely dry on the inside. No humidity, no mold, no parasites.

 

[sumu]

Thanks so much, Southern Alberta, for the instructions on building the trash can coop. I can use these and adapt them to my horizontal shed idea. This is very much appreciated. Thanks again for your time!
Suzanne