Basic coop checklist help

[aart]

What is the size of your coop in the photo here and how many birds overnight in it?

Coop is 16x6' with 500sqft in two runs.
I keep about 16-18 over winter, might have 30+ during chick season
More info here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/aarts-coop-page

 

[meglynnie]

I would go with a coop about 8x8 for 10 chicks... especially if you get any kind of winter. Snow and blowing wind might make them reluctant to venture outside, or stay outside for long... so way more inside space is needed.

Also, a roofed run to keep snow out is excellent. If there is no snow in the run, and if you wall 2 sides of the run to block wind, they will be MUCH more likely to enjoy time outside. So... less crowding... less bad behavior.

And yes, electric to the coop for dark winter days and a heated waterer would be great.

I like stacking my coop "stuff" to maximize space...

So under the poop shelf put nest boxes. I love poop shelves.

Or, I really like the removable wire front that fits under 1 of my poop shelves and makes that area perfect for raising chicks, or putting a broody... or whatever.

I love the stacking idea, I wasn't thinking about that until I saw some of the comments! Thanks!