Cover or roof on run?

Chelps03

Chirping
Aug 19, 2018
15
18
56
Southern Indiana
Hey everyone! I’m wanting to build my first coop but the area I’m wanting to build it in is almost completely shaded by a big oak tree. I thought since the tree will be over the coop I didn’t need to cover the run but thought maybe I should to keep it dry. Also I read where the chickens love the sun, will I be hurting them or causing issues with little to no sunlight in that area. Thanks so much!
 
The shade will be good in summer and let the sun thru in the winter.
Keeping rain, and maybe snow, out of the run are different considerations.

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!
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I have polycarbonate sheets as a roof over half of my run. It isn't clear, it's a milky color, and the label said 83% light transmission. Since I'm not under the trees, the other half has a tarp over it for now. They like the shade of the tarp in the hot afternoons. They sure enjoyed the light under the polycarbonate in the winter.

The soil/shredded up leaves and plants in both halves is quite dry. I wet it down to make it cooler.
 
Mine has a wire roof and a tarp. Sun comes in through the run's sides at various times throughout the day. Plus, they get foraging time daily.

Roofs are great, IMO. If the run has a roof, the chickens will be able to use that area when it rains. Maybe roof part of it if you think they won't get enough sun otherwise?
 

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