Coop size

[Emmastemarie_1]

Hello! I have some questions about the coop we have. Our landlord left a coop/ shed for us and there are windows made out of chicken wire you can open. It’s roughly 15 ft length and 7 ft width. We have no run for them to have, so Is it ok for 4 chickens to only live in the coop with no run? In my opinion I think the coop is so big they will be fine, but I need more opinions since I have never had chickens. Thanks! (Here is a picture of the coop I know it has to be cleaned)

 

[DobieLover]

They need a run or to be let out to free range.

 

[Brooks_]

In theory, they could be left in the coop, but might as well buy grocery store at that point. Build a run or free range. And the ventilation is lacking in the "shed".

 

[Emmastemarie_1]

In theory, they could be left in the coop, but might as well buy grocery store at that point. Build a run or free range. And the ventilation is lacking in the "shed".

Ok, we can’t free range because our dogs/cats will kill them, so how big of a run do you think will be appropriate?

 

[Brooks_]

Ok, we can’t free range because our dogs/cats will kill them, so how big of a run do you think will be appropriate?

10 square feet per bird is the general guideline.

 

[TheAlrightyGina]

Ok, we can’t free range because our dogs/cats will kill them, so how big of a run do you think will be appropriate?

For 4 you need at least 40 sq foot, if they're standard fowl. Bigger is always better, though.

 

[aart]

They need some fresh air and sunshine during the days, so it's best to have a run.
Do you own this coop/shed or are you renting all and it belongs to the landlord?
Were there chickens living in it before?
Because it will likely need some modifications.
Would be good to have pics of the inside.

Welcome to BYC! @Emmastemarie_1
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, and then it's always there!

 

[Crazyabouthens]

No sorry they need to be let out, free ranging. If you keep them in all the time, cooped up, it’s so not healthy. They will most likely get sick and diseases, eggs won’t be as healthy and tasty and chickens don’t enjoy or deserve a life like that. They should be letting them out every day for fresh air, freedom, to dig for bugs and sunbave. So please please please let them out and give them a good life. They don’t deserve to be stuck in a hut.

 

[TheAlrightyGina]

What you could always do is take off some of the wall panels and attach fencing to the framing for your run, especially if you live somewhere hot. I'd do it on the part without the window, since they need ventilation in the coop.

 

[Emmastemarie_1]

No sorry they need to be let out, free ranging. If you keep them in all the time, cooped up, it’s so not healthy. They will most likely get sick and diseases, eggs won’t be as healthy and tasty and chickens don’t enjoy or deserve a life like that. They should be letting them out every day for fresh air, freedom, to dig for bugs and sunbave. So please please please let them out and give them a good life. They don’t deserve to be stuck in a hut.

Ok, we will provide a run