Coop without run

[bluetrain]

Do you HAVE to have a run for the chickens? The family that gave us our chicks built a coop that is 8x8x8 and all the hens stay inside the coop. I am planning on copying his design, it is pretty simple but seems to work very well.....but without a run.....am I going to be ok to basically copy his design or should there be a run?

 

[Chicky Tocks]

If you don't provide the chickens a run, how will they get fresh air and sunshine?

 

[bluetrain]

Quote:
Sorry, didn't give details.....it is a 3 walled (sides and back), floored and ceiling...the 4th wall is open, covered by hardware cloth and door.....so one whole side is open and will be facing east in my yard.

 

[Teach97]

It will work fine...even with a fourth wall it would work

How to get fresh air and sunshine...door and windows

 

[kick'n chick'n]

i know some people around here that have coops like you're talking about. it will work but i wouldnt have more than a few chickens in there since basically your coop & run are 64 sqft combined.

 

[TXmom]

It's really a personal decision. My coop is 8x8 but I wouldn't consider leaving them in there 24/7. Mine would be overcrowded because of the number I have. If you only have a few hens and they each have plenty of room, it would be OK....but they really do love to run around outside.

 

[jonesgirl]

You can easily put up a fence around the coop to let them run, and then lock them up at night.. How many chickens are you planning on putting in it?

 

[bluetrain]

So I could modify my design and add a run to it.....I will think/look into it...I was going to purchase all my materials this weekend and hopefully start construction next week.
Thanks for all the input.

 

[bluetrain]

Quote:
Well they gave us 16 chicks.....not knowing how many hens yet....and all seem to be doing well at the moment.

 

[jonesgirl]

oo 8x8x8 for 16 chickens? you do know they get big right :}

Just playing~ I think a run would be a good idea!