Complete Newb, Trying to Hash out Coop plans...Divided coop? Opinions please!

[mrshaggie810]

Ok, so as I said, I am a complete newb...I have 2 Rouen/Runner cross ducklings (I feel like I post that way too often! lol!) but I am hoping to get a few chickens too (I'd really like 6, but we'll see) Anyways...so I've heard yes the birds can co-habitate, no they can't...back and forth with good info on either side...so, I was thinking, what if I make a shed style coop (I think that's what it's called?) and basically just put a dividing wall down the center of the coop and the center of the run...I figure if the ducks don't get along for some reason I can seperate them, or I can get chickens without hubby having a tissy that we have to build another building and buy more materials (he is fine with them, but not really into them yet...but if I already have a space, he wouldn't even know the difference! lol!) I think I also want to do some type of open topped, re-tractable fence that I can just set if I want to let them free range but that will keep them a little contained without having to worry about them getting to far, or a stray dog snatching one up (I would only put them in it when I was outside.) I want to try to keep it lighter weight also so that I can move it around since we rent so that we don't completely deplete the grass in some areas! So...thoughts? Advice...I am going to try to start drawing up plans, so maybe I will post a pic once those are done...and also...does anyone have a link to the bird to sq. ft. ratio info? I am new and still finding my way around. Thanks so much in advance for any help!

 

[teach1rusl]

I think dividing a shed sounds like a simple, workable solution, especially with a small flock. A wire divider would work fine if framed. That way the ducks/chickens can even see one another and have a better shot of getting along if you eventually try them all together.
I'm not sure w/ducks, but in MI, I would not allot less than 4 sq. ft. of shelter space for the chickens, as I'd think you guys get a decent amount of snow, and the birds will probably be indoors quite a bit during those times...

 

[mrshaggie810]

Thanks so much that is very helpful..and yes, I was just thinking a framed, wire divider. We do get lot's of snow, so that is good to keep in mind to...Also...I am planning some windows, but do you think it's ok if they are basically vent windows that are open all the time or do you think the birds will get too cold in the winter? (I'm thinking small, up high.)

 

[teach1rusl]

I use both, vents and windows. The advantage of lots of windows is that the sun can help heat the interior up in cold weather. In my coops that don't have "real" windows, I cover the window openings with plexiglass (well, technically lexan because DH gets scrap from his work place) in winter. Then, when the weather is hot, these window openings allow for nice breezes and less stuffiness.

In your area, I would tack a loosely woven cloth (like burlap) over vent openings during your coldest months. That way moist air can still escape, but icy breezes are diffused. I'd suggest this whether you opt for window openings or not...

 

[mrshaggie810]

Great tip! Thank you! I have so many ideas! I need to get this thing built, but I feel like I could spend a week just sketching out idea's for it! LOL!

 

[Jimtherunner]

My coop is 8x14. I have 11 guinea fowl and 11 chickens. They were brooded near but not in the same pen until the ungodly heat forced me to move the chicks in the house. I was very concerned that I would have to separate them, but it turned out it not be a problem. I bought a thick net from eBay...like the kind that stops a golf ball or baseball. It is 3/4 inch mesh. A 9 foot sq piece was about $30. I intended to hang it as a divider...would still allow me easy access, the birds to see each other, not impede air flow, and would be, hopefully, temporary. Just a thought.