coop/shelter sqft per bird?

[gladahmae]

I apologize if this has already been addressed, but I'm wondering if there is a recommended sqft/bird ratio for coops or shelters when raising meaties (is there a different recommendation for Cx vs Broilers vs FRs?). The plan is to make a large run, and divide it up and rotate usage with that, so that's not a factor; I'm strictly looking for shelter size ideas. We are looking to build a duplex coop this fall for meaties and layers to be purchased next spring, and DH needs some numbers to work with as far as size goes. Thanks!

 

[Kikiriki]

If you look at my photos you'll see I have a tiny coop for three chickens...the problems I've had are their ability to get up and down from the roost, and the ladder taking too much room: they manage, but I would prefer a larger coop that functions better. Also, there is about 10 sq ft for 3 birds and this has been good because they spread out when the evenings are hot...if they really had only two sq ft each, they would probably get heat stressed from being too tightly packed together. There are three roosting perches inside, and they will move away from each other. So, yes, youmcan pack them in, but if you can afford more room use it!