Basics: What is the purpose of a run?

[sagemccoy]

I'm in charge of researching coops and runs and the Why's of how they're built for my family unit before we get chickens. I know runs are important, but how would you describe their importance to someone outside of the chicken world? We plan to let our future chooks run about the yard, so my boyfriend isn't sure why we would need a large run. TIA!

 

[annaBsChick]

To give them freedom to play around outside without getting killed by predators.

 

[pennyJo1960]

Very much so security somewhere they can run be out and be safe from aerial attacks
Welcome to Backyard Chickens hope you enjoy as much as we do

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Predator proof runs are especially important for chickens who do not free range full time. Chickens are not meant to be cooped-up in a coop all day. They need to eat, drink, explore, scratch, stretch, dust bathe, play and enjoy a stress free chicken life within a flock. It is our responsibility as chicken owners to provide a safe coop and run for our feathered families!

 

[Thyme4Chickens]

Hi! Good for you for researching first!

Where are you located? Knowing what predators you're up against can go a long way in planning for a secure coop/run. One of the members on here made this great image to show you how you can add your general location to your profile:

 

[sagemccoy]

Hi! Good for you for researching first!

Where are you located? Knowing what predators you're up against can go a long way in planning for a secure coop/run. One of the members on here made this great image to show you how you can add your general location to your profile:

Thanks! I updated. We're in Northwest Arkansas. We def have a few raccoons in our neighborhood. And we hear coyotes sometimes. We're in the middle of the city, but in a nice little wooded area, so there is some wildlife we've been concerned about during our research!

 

[sagemccoy]

Also, almost all the coop designs have the roosting part a couple feet off the ground. What is the purpose of this? Sorry if these are simple questions, I'm really trying to fully understand everything, and there's a LOT to comb through on this site. Having a blast reading through threads though!!

 

[Thyme4Chickens]

Yeah, I had no idea just how many things wanted to kill/eat chickens until I started researching!!!!!

Chickens have an instinct to roost/sleep on the highest thing available. So that's why the roost bar should be higher than the nesting boxes. I really like this article for knowing where to put things in the coop: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/coop-stack-up-how-high-should-stuff-be.73427/

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Warning: BYC is addicting!!
Make yourself at home, and ask away!

 

[Thyme4Chickens]

Oh, and no need to apologize for questions - It's always worthwhile to figure out the "whys" and evaluate everything!