Coop and Run size for 4 chickens

[zannar88]

Hi there -

My husband and I are looking into getting 4 baby chicks to raise into backyard chickens. We live in the country so we are going to fence off part of our yard for their coop and run. While most days, we will let them out into the fenced area, there will be times where we will leave them in the coop and run only (if we won't be home before dark, gone overnight, etc.) What size run to you recommend for 3-4 chickens to be able to stay in and not get too bored or stressed? We will also make sure all of it is predator proof, of course!
If you have links to any, it is appreciated!

 

[Acre4Me]

Generally minimums talked about are 4sqft per bird In the coop and 10sqft per bird in the run. So, go bigger if possible.

Next, you should be aware of the term “chicken Math”. This is where you find yourself adding more chickens to your flock. This is particularly important when you live where there are no restrictions and you have a decent to large amount of land. So, if you like keeping chickens and enjoy their eggs, you might want to add to your flock.

Lastly, you may want to add electric to your coop/run for late or early checks and possibly providing light in the winter to keep up egg production during the shorter days. So, you might think about that aspect when planning placement of coop run.

Have fun!

 

[zannar88]

Thanks so much!

Luckily, we have a light off the end of the house that would provide light to the area as well as an outlet for plugging in heat lamps, etc.!

I had chickens growing up but it was in the city so we were pretty limited on space for them. So it only seemed ideal to get them now we have some more space. And who doesn't love fresh eggs?