Coops Kids Could Build--Need Advice

[smith2]

All right, calling all coop experts. I am a school teacher and need a simple coop idea for 4-5 chickens with little or minimal cutting required and regular, common materials. My 7/8 graders want to do this as a sustainable ag. service learning project and build the coop themselves to sell/give away complete with the chickens. Does anyone know of easy designs or plans that have minimal construction requirements?

 

[chookchick]

Click on the "coop designs" link at the top of the page, then "small coops" and you will find an insane number of coop ideas. If you click on the link underneath--it goes to a page that should help with construction. Another idea is to get large dog houses, and retrofit them with roosts and nest boxes, for 2-3 chickens. They could also build a run that attaches. What a great project!

 

[CityChook]

If you're close to a big box store, they will cut your wood for you. It will take a little more planning on your behalf, but there would be no exposure to power tools. Some stores charge a nominal fee. I have found that most do not. Maybe they take one look at my manicure and figure that I can't do it for myself? Hmmmm....

I'd recommend something simple like a dog-house style coop. Cube for the bottom, could do a sloped (vs. gabled) rooftop. Couple of hinges on the roof for access and you're golden.

Sounds like fun!

 

[JayDe]

The big box stores are especially happy to cut wood when you let them know it is a school project. Good luck!

 

[Big George]

Good for you and them. Do you have a few hand and power tools? You will be amazed at what they can do. Check your library, another chance to include them in this part of the research. I have modeled some of my coops after those found at www.henhouse.co.uk/ . Here you will see several styles all simple and made of wood. Wish I were their to help, good luck.

 

[sashurlow]

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=291188

 

[jeni51]

I bought a wooden rabbit hutch and just put a roost in. I also covered the large wire door with plywood. It has been out all winter with 2 bantam Cochin and they are very happy. I live in PA.