Building a coop for 4-6 BR's that I can move by hand..hopefully

[TheMasonFamily]

So, we have 4 BR's that are 5 wks old. They have been living in our garage for a month because the store we bought them at said it was necessary. They free range in our backyard in the day but hop the fence at dusk to go inside.

I am going to build them a coop today. I was thinking a 5' wide X 8' long A-frame with the coop on top and an open floor, made of cedar, plywood and the mesh everyone recommends (can't think of name at moment). My concern is it may be too heavy and I need to be able to move it by hand.

Environmental factors are: We live south of Tampa, FL close to the Gulf so direct hit hurricanes are rare but it rains and is normally hot/humid. I have a large yard with a lot of very big tree cover so it stays pretty shaded and I don't think hawks are too big of a problem (don't know about owls though??). Outside our fence is a large, unmaintained field so we get raccoons and possums every night. Our neighbor says snakes are an issue but I've yet to see one.

I have looked on Craigslist and think I can build one cheaper than the only ones I'd buy-money is an issue but I need to get these lil ladies a home today. I feel bad..

Any insight would be much appreciated!

 

[ButchGood]

Put wheels on the heavy end and wheel barrow handles on the other end. You will be able to pick up the light end easily and wheel it around to the next spot. There are lots of neat designs for chicken tractors on this site. Just search, "chicken tractors" and I'm sure you'll find a design to your liking.

 

[ButchGood]

This should give you some ideas.https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/chicken-tractors-mobile-chicken-coop-designs