Is there any consideration need for meat birds compared to egg layers? Do they need more roost space? do they need more coop space ( or less if I plan on free ranging them during the day)? Thanks.
Welcome! Meat birds don't roost. It isn't safe for them to jump up and down from roosts and they really can't fly past about ten days of age! I use a 2 x 4 layed down on its side for them to "pretend" roost on while they are still little. They don't really move around much, back and forth from the food to the water. I am assuming you are speaking of Cornish X birds, by the way! I kept mine in a 12 x 12 chain link dog kennel, there were 11 of them. Plenty of room to move about . I made like a "house" for them with tarps in a corner and on the top, to give them some protection from wind and rain. Shade is the most important thing in the summer! I kept a fan on mine 24/7, they loved it. Jane
They really don't need alot of room, b/c they don't move around alot. I had 24 in an area 8x12 feet. they don't roost. They need to be able to get to their food and water easily, and if outside, they need protection from the sun and rain, and if its cool, from the wind.
You might want to consider a movable pen or 'tractor'. Do a search for 'tractor' on this forum as there are several threads (some with photos).