Coop Design

[Keithwa]

I have just finished my coop and was just wondering if anyone has water and food in the coop also or just outside in the runs?

 

[sloanbychoice]

I’ve heard many people doing both.
I think the biggest factor is your schedule.
I keep food and water outside the coop at all times. But this means never sleeping in (which I rarely would accomplish anyway).
Keeping water outside the coop means getting them let out first thing so they can get to it.

If you’re proactive, neither method is wrong.
Some things to consider:
Keeping food in the coop can bring in rodents.
Keeping water inside the coop can raise humidity levels when cold, creating issues.
Keeping them outside means being responsible for letting them out early.
Some people use automatic doors so this won’t be an issue for them.
Personally, I couldn’t do that... I want to inspect me flock each morning for potential issues.
Basically, you won’t be wrong either way... just pick what works with your lifestyle.

 

[aart]

I like mine in the coop, but coop is in a large shed with a heated waterer.
Nice to have shelter when tending the birds during winter and rainstorms.