Do I really need a ramp?

[chics in the sun]

Wow! That actually helped me visualize it. And I love the idea of having something I could lift up and out of the way to clean, Pineaplemama. I need a tiny fold-out ladder stair case like they have for attics!

 

[chics in the sun]

Kidcallous, we posted at the same time, and I had JUST thought of that when I looked at my picture again. It would be tricky since I would have to do it from under the platform, but that might just be the easiest option.

 

[chics in the sun]

Another question - if I did that, I would have to take out about one square foot of "coop" space. It is currently 4x4, which is already a bit small if I get a total of five birds. What do you think?
(The nesting boxes are not up there - I just worked on those this weekend, and they are in the 5 x 5 "addition", on the ground - the "loft" is more a protected area with a roost for sleeping).

 

[rancher hicks]

One of the first things I consider is "cleanability". From what I can see that loft/roost is going to be a difficult thing to clean. Scraping poop? I would take out the "loft" and put a ladder type roost in. They are going to need a least three sides of protection unless it never rains where you are. Rain doesn't always fall down, sometimes it goes sideways.

Before you begin anything else I suggest a study in coops and why they are designed the way they are. Certain criteria must be met in order to have the correct elements of a safe and comfortable home for you chickens. A good place to start might be your public library.

Coops can be in many shapes and sizes but they still need to have specific elements.

All the best

Rancher

 

[chics in the sun]

I live in Florida, and yes, it does rain, but usually only for about five minutes at a time. I researched coops for hot weather, and designed a smaller version of one a guy has near me. I am acutally installing vinyl roll-up sides to put down when we do have heavy rain or the temperature dips below 50 degrees. Otherwise the consensus down here is that you only want one solid side or it will get too hot and stuffy and it is not good for the chicken's respiratory system. Today it was 94 degrees. I have put vinyl tile in the roost area, which cleans very nicely.

This is a fascinating link I read about open-air coops-

http://www.nortoncreekpress.com/fresh-air-poultry-houses2.html

 

[rancher hicks]

Quote:
Well now that puts a different complexion on things. I'm in NY and we get alot of rain. I've never been to Florida, but I've been to Oklahoma, they tell me I was born there , but I really don't remember.

 

[chics in the sun]

Yes, traditional coops are not the best for down here. We actually have several flocks of feral chickens who live outside year-round in my parent's neighborhood, as well as a flock of peacocks just a few blocks north of me.

I think I will build a "bent" ramp as described in earlier posts so I don't have to take out any of the roost area.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

No need for a ramp
Just put a couple of rungs like a ladder. They can hop up a few feet without any problem, and it will stay cleaner

 

[gabby3535]

I think the question is not so much "can they fly 'up' there" but what damage can they do to feet and legs jumping 'down from' there. That's going to be a big, hard landing!
And chickens generally don't just hop off the edge, and then straight down..........but it's more like jumping 'out' and 'away from' (the loft)....
They will need room to perform that manouver.....day after day, week after week........
Is there any way you could make the attached run 'longer'? Add on another 2-3 feet or so?
Or........could you lower the loft at this point?

Just some random thoughts...............
Good luck with your chickens!!!

 

[redhen]

I cheated in my coop.. i bought a big wooden parrot ladder from a pet store..(like for a Macaw..)..(i think from petco).. and thats how my birds get up to ther roots...