I currently have two open air runs. The first is 9x18, I use it to raise chicks until they're roughly 10-12 weeks old and can go out with the older birds and I don't have to worry about the younger girls being harrased by the breeding males.
The second is 10x25, this is the main coop (open air run) that the older chickens sleep in and use for shelter in bad weather, they free range the rest of the time.
I'm realizing I need a third run for when I want to separate a specific group of chickens for breeding. The max I'd put in it at a time would be 6 females and 1 male. I realize I need to separate out the girls for at least 30 days up to 6 weeks to ensure I know which male the chicks are from.
Since the pullets/hens would be penned for the duration I realize they'll need more space than normal to reduce stress and bullying, the male wouldn't be added until the last week, maybe two, of the 6 week period.
I have space for another 10x20, but that seems like overkill for a pen that would only be used for small groups. It would also cut into the area I plan to put in a garden for the chickens and a dust bathing area.
What size would be suitable and what accessories would I need to account for that would take up space in the breeding run?
Any links would be greatly appreciated. Also pictures of your setups if you manage your flock in a similar manner would be helpful. Thanks
The second is 10x25, this is the main coop (open air run) that the older chickens sleep in and use for shelter in bad weather, they free range the rest of the time.
I'm realizing I need a third run for when I want to separate a specific group of chickens for breeding. The max I'd put in it at a time would be 6 females and 1 male. I realize I need to separate out the girls for at least 30 days up to 6 weeks to ensure I know which male the chicks are from.
Since the pullets/hens would be penned for the duration I realize they'll need more space than normal to reduce stress and bullying, the male wouldn't be added until the last week, maybe two, of the 6 week period.
I have space for another 10x20, but that seems like overkill for a pen that would only be used for small groups. It would also cut into the area I plan to put in a garden for the chickens and a dust bathing area.
What size would be suitable and what accessories would I need to account for that would take up space in the breeding run?
Any links would be greatly appreciated. Also pictures of your setups if you manage your flock in a similar manner would be helpful. Thanks
