I'm a newbie, too, and have been making changes as I learn more about my flock and what works best for both of us. I have 5 15-week old pullets. My coop is nicely built and has good ventilation-windows on one side and a kind of window on the other side that closes completely (no glass). Both have sturdy wire on them. The coop/run is in a shady spot, so stays cool during the day, for the most part. It will get more sun in the winter. The run is covered and very secure. We have a dig-proof skirting covered with gravel and an electric fence around the coop and run. There are roosts inside and one outside. I used to make sure the girls were in their coop at night (made me feel better), but for the past few weeks, I have not closed the door to the coop, so they can choose whether to stay out or go inside. They seem to like this arrangement. They usually sleep inside, but are out and about early in the morning. I have moved their food and water outside, also. They spend just about all day outside, unless it is a dark, rainy day, then they might catch a nap inside. I plan on keeping it this way until the weather turns cold. Then I will want to close the coop door to keep them warmer at night.
