Chicken run and free range

[cibula11]

Just completed the horse stall conversion to a coop and a separate run/tractor. I will be free-ranging them as often as possible, but wondered about how much run space I needed because of this. I know roughly 3 sq ft per bird in the coop and 10-15 in the run, however since my birds will be free ranged for several hours each day, I wondered, if these numbers matter as much. For reference, I have 16 chickens, the inside coop is just under 100 sq ft. and the tractor that connects to the barn stall is 32 sq ft, but I am adding another 4x8 section...so the total run space will be 64 sq ft. Do I need a larger run or will this do since they will be confined to it for only 8 hrs a day for 1 or 2 days per week?

 

[4 the Birds]

Just completed the horse stall conversion to a coop and a separate run/tractor. I will be free-ranging them as often as possible, but wondered about how much run space I needed because of this. I know roughly 3 sq ft per bird in the coop and 10-15 in the run, however since my birds will be free ranged for several hours each day, I wondered, if these numbers matter as much. For reference, I have 16 chickens, the inside coop is just under 100 sq ft. and the tractor that connects to the barn stall is 32 sq ft, but I am adding another 4x8 section...so the total run space will be 64 sq ft. Do I need a larger run or will this do since they will be confined to it for only 8 hrs a day for 1 or 2 days per week?

Some people that free range don't have a run at all. Having said that.... a run space is ideal even if you free range. This will allow your birds to go inside and outside with a predator proof set-up. Typically the run is at least twice the space or more of the coop area. My birds free range in an acre area but also have the protection and shade of an enclosed run. Hope this helps!

 

[cibula11]

Yes, that does help. Thanks. I think as long as I free range them often enough, they'll be fine with my set up. If not, I can always make it bigger for them.