Chicken coop how big?

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animalover14

animalover14

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I am new to the chicken raising world. I don't have any chickens currently but my mom says that if I pay for them and do everything for them myself I can have as many as I want. I am planning on getting chickens so I can sell the eggs and make some money. So I was thinking of getting 5-6 chickens so I don't have to keep the eggs long before I can sell them. So, I need to build a coop that is big enough for 5-6 chickens. I just need a coop that is secure enough to keep coyotes, raccoons, skunks, dogs, eagles, and cats out. Also I have a secure section that I am going to fence off so they have a big run outside. I was thinking of putting the coop inside the fenced off area but I still need plans for the coop. Can anyone help me?
 
There is a ton of information in the learning center (second tab above). I highly recommendrreading up on chick/chicken care before you get chicks. As far as the coop, you will get varying answers. I am of the belief that more is better. Some say minimum of 2 square feet per hen. But 4 or 5 square feet per hen is much better. Keeping them in tight quarters will lead to behavioral and health problems. I purchased my chicks from mypetchicken. They have a free chicken care guide on their website that I found useful when I was preparing for my chicks.

Take a look through the learning center, read the forum, pay attention to the sticky threads in each section. Many questions you will have, have been answered throughout this site.

Good luck and welcome!
 
Thank You so much!!! I will!!
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Welcome to BYC!

X2 on the space requirements in the coop. 4 to 5 square foot per bird minimum space in the coop, 10 square foot per bird in the run. Birds will go off on each other when cramped in.

You will definitely want to stop by our learning center for lots of articles on getting started and raising your flock...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

As for coops, take a look at our coops pages for lots of great coop ideas. Many of these are very easy to follow and some even have plans...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/2/Coops

Great to have you aboard and if you have any questions, that is what we are here for. Welcome to our flock!
 
Welcome!

I agree with the others on the space requirements. My birds stay in the run most of the time, because due to predators I can't let them out to free range unless I'm home to supervise. I gave them as much room as possible with what I had to work with.

Think big, and build your coop/run on the assumption you will get more chickens later - because you will.
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Or - you can do what I did, and just keep building more pens every time you get MORE CHICKENS!!
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I am so very greatful for all of your comments you really helped me alot!!! thanks so much!!
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Hello :frow and Welcome To BYC! Good luck with your coop building projects!
 

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