Adding a small coop inside the run

[bhawk-23]

Hello all! We are expecting some chicks on Oct 21st. Our hen is currently in a nesting box which is working fine for sitting but we will need to get her and the chicks in a better suited place when they hatch. We need an easier access point for the chicks to come and go and a private place for mama and chicks to sleep. We have an empty space under a shelf in the run. We were thinking to build a mini coop in it. The measurements are 4' length 28" height and 20" deep. We would like to make it semi permanent for anytime a separate space is needed. Our idea is to box in the back, sides and top with with plywood and insulation and have the front slide in and out on tracks for easy install. The front would consist of half solid wood and the other half hardware cloth with a small access door for when it is in use. We could then slide in the front when it's needed but have the space open when it is not in use. Has anyone else done something similar? Can you think of design flaws or how to improve it's design? Is there a better idea? I'll attach some pics of our coop for analysis.
Thank you for any and all input!

 

[black_cat]

I think that this is a great idea! I think that instead of having one big solid box, I would have at least two walls be hardware cloth and have a cozy 'coop' in the opposite corner, with the main thing being the 'run'.

 

[bhawk-23]

I think that this is a great idea! I think that instead of having one big solid box, I would have at least two walls be hardware cloth and have a cozy 'coop' in the opposite corner, with the main thing being the 'run'.

How big does the 'coop' side need to be for a hen and chicks? We are hoping to free range them with the rest of the flock. We will supervise the beginning for sure. But yes, I was also thinking about a separate place for whatever reason and that would most likely need a small open air place. Thanks!

 

[black_cat]

How big does the 'coop' side need to be for a hen and chicks? We are hoping to free range them with the rest of the flock. We will supervise the beginning for sure. But yes, I was also thinking about a separate place for whatever reason and that would most likely need a small open air place. Thanks!

About as big as a nest box. Free ranging should work out fine.

 

[bhawk-23]

Here's the small coop addition. The front is completely removable for when it is not in use. I am also going to make a roost stand for when a hen is being separated. We will line it with straw when in use. Thanks for the input @black_cat. I cannot wait to get our hen and new chicks in it next week!!