Coop and run math/how big?

[gemd]

I have a 9*3 foot run plus a 7*3 foot run-coop combo (coop part is about 3*3) and will end up with 12-13 hens. So far I have 6 and some hatchlings. I let my 6 out daily for an hour or two to free range and then they're back in their coop-run-coop combo.

But once I have up to 13..I need some coop math help. Is that enough if they free range 1+2 hours? I am also adding a second meeting box area inside the running an old cabinet.

 

[3KillerBs]

The usual guidelines are that each adult, standard-sized hen needs:

4 square feet in the coop,
10 square feet in the run,
1 linear foot of roost,
and 1 square foot of permanent, 25/7/365 ventilation, which is best located above the birds' heads when they're sitting on the roost. The pop door that is closed at night and any windows that are closed in the winter don't count.

So, for 13 chickens you need:

52 square feet in the coop,
520 square feet in the run,
13 feet of roost,
and 13 square feet of ventilation.

Since you're in Texas check out this coop, which is one of the main inspirations for my own Open Air coop build: https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/texas-coop-build-pic-heavy.1371038/

 

[MissE]

I have a 9*3 foot run plus a 7*3 foot run-coop combo (coop part is about 3*3) and will end up with 12-13 hens. So far I have 6 and some hatchlings. I let my 6 out daily for an hour or two to free range and then they're back in their coop-run-coop combo.

But once I have up to 13..I need some coop math help. Is that enough if they free range 1+2 hours? I am also adding a second meeting box area inside the running an old cabinet.

If you want the most basic of math, you need a 10x13 run for 13 birds. You may need more depending on how they get along. Your coop would need to 8x7. Again, these are basic estimates but as a general rule, 10 square feet in the run and 4 square feet in the coop per bird. Plus 1 square foot of permanent ventilation in the coop per bird.

 

[junior67]

The usual guidelines are that each adult, standard-sized hen needs:

4 square feet in the coop,
10 square feet in the run,
1 linear foot of roost,
and 1 square foot of permanent, 25/7/365 ventilation, which is best located above the birds' heads when they're sitting on the roost. The pop door that is closed at night and any windows that are closed in the winter don't count.

So, for 13 chickens you need:

52 square feet in the coop,
520 square feet in the run,
13 feet of roost,
and 13 square feet of ventilation.

Since you're in Texas check out this coop, which is one of the main inspirations for my own Open Air coop build: https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/texas-coop-build-pic-heavy.1371038/

Think you mean 130 sq ft in the run.

But great information as always.

 

[Auntiejessi3]

Go bigger than your current needs, cuz I'm sure some more chickens will find their way into your coop

 

[U_Stormcrow]

unless you are measuring in meters, you don't have the space for the birds you have in conditions the majority of backyard poultry owners would consider good management practice. Suspect your birds, whenever possible, don't use the coop - something TX weather mostly makes possible.

Pictures would help us see your lay out, and I don't know your circumstances, budget, or space constraints, but my recommendation based on some common assumptions and the info offered above is that you should look into a substantial expansion of the run into an open air combined coop/run more like 16x16, sheltered/wind break on two sides with a roof of 8x8 or so, and try to free range them more if possible too.

Abundance is a social lubricant, and frankly, there is just no space in the dimensions you've offered if they are measured in feet. Open Air coops are VERY practical in TX, and not hugely expensive to build. You may have success in scooping up free or minimal cost reclaimed materials off craigslist, local construction projects, etc.

 

[gemd]

I will work on getting pics and am happy for any suggestions for expansion that fit my area andy budget.

 

[gemd]

I will work on getting pics and am happy for any suggestions for expansion that fit my area and my budget.

 

[Auntiejessi3]

I also live in Texas, I built my 7x8 coop for $550, I scavenged a ton of materials just by asking people I know if they had anything laying around I could haul off(I scored tin, lumber, and some fencing) just start asking around then see what you have to work with.

 

[U_Stormcrow]

and if you can scoop up cattle panels (I've NEVER seen them offered, they are friggin' GOLD if you can find them being given away), a hoop coop is another good option.