Do chickens need a lot of sun?

[Eggstravaganza]

I'm trying to get a small flock going at my school (I already have 5 at home) and I'm trying to choose the location for the run/coop. I found a good location but it is pretty much shady the entire day. Will chickens be unhappy/unhealthy in this environment?

 

[TimBaumann]

I don't know if I'm 100% correct! The way I see it is that if a chicken can have as much sun as it wants it will be happier, lay more eggs, look nicer and live longer! I read that the more light a budgie gets the longer it lives......maybe it's the same with chicken!
Good luck with building your coop!

 

[4 the Birds]

I agree with Tim. A good coop and run will be covered and have plenty of shade. The suns ultra violet rays actually can kill mold and provide some warming for the coop in the Winter months. I feel that all living creatures enjoy and benefit from a little direct sunlight!