Coop size and capacity

[NewcoopNewpoop]

I understand fully the 4 sq ft per bird rule. I get it.
What I dont get is when I see 6 birds go in a 4x4. What is the point of the rule?

 

[HoneyBeeHomestead]

Not everyone follows the rule. 3-4 ft per bird is just a general guideline and the recommended minimum per bird. The space they need in the coop also depends on your climate. If you live somewhere warm where your chickens can free range/be in a large run all day, 365 days a year, most can get away with less. (even if it's not recommended) But if you live somewhere where it's cold and snowy for a good portion of the year, and they will be stuck inside, it's best to up that minimum.

 

[Ridgerunner]

I understand fully the 4 sq ft per bird rule. I get it.
What I dont get is when I see 6 birds go in a 4x4. What is the point of the rule?

The 4 square feet is a guideline, not a law of nature. It is to keep a vast majority of people out of trouble. For a lot of people, it is overkill, much more than they need. For some people it is not enough. You generally need more room if you are integrating, have a broody hen and chicks, or multiple males. If you have a climate where they are locked in the coop only for long sections of time they may need more room. Some chickens have personalities where they need more room. In those cases, 4 sq ft may not be enough.

Some people use 3 sq ft as a guideline and do well. It works with their flock, climate, and management techniques. For some 5 sq ft is not enough.

I know you read some posts on here that make it sound that if you have 3.99 sq ft per bird you are headed for an unmitigated disaster while if you provide that extra 0.01 sq ft it is Nirvana for them. It really doesn't work that way.

 

[NewcoopNewpoop]

This makes a lot of sense. Thanks for posting.