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That 4 sq. ft. business is a sham. That is for interior floor space in a coop intended primarily for roosting and nesting. It is NOT for overall living allowance.
It is one of the worst bits of advice circulating around the back yard chicken world and is responsible for more problems than anyone even knows.**
** Let me rephrase that, since we here at BYC do not like to "tell you what to do." Heaven forbid.
You can use 4 sq ft. per bird if you want and the chickens won't ever complain, guaranteed.
The commercial poultry business allows less than half that, after all. In fact, the 4 sq ft allowance preceded modern commercial practice. But you stop being a chicken person if you use it and become just another waste manager instead. Your choice.
Yes a tractor style is the ultimate plan, except large. we were also thinking about clipping them so they cant fly over the 5' fence and let them free range the yard alot. Is clipping a good idea?
EXCELLENT plan. I love it! So will your chickens.
Clip those wings and keep anything the birds can jump on away from the fence.
Also remember that everything loves a chicken dinner. In the urban environment, the domestic DOG is your enemy... make the fence secure against digging and keep the chickens inside it.
Sadly, this includes your own beloved mutt. If you have a dog of your own, watch it closely and do not turn your back on it until you are assured there is no problem. Even then, remain alert. Trust me on this.