does a chicken coop/run need direct sun light

[Zwillingsmama]

I am going to built a new coop this summer for my 5 girls and have 2 options on my property. One side is sunny and I would have to built a new coop/run from scratch, the other side has a 10X10 roofed structure and an additional 10x10 area under an evergreen tree. It only gets minimal direct sunlight under the structure and non under the tree. I would prefer using the existing structure because I can't garden there and the sunny side is ideal for gardening. I will take a picture of the structure and possible run area and would appreciate any input if that would be an option.
BTW. I live in the SF Bay Area and plan an very open coop. I think I only use hardware cloth to enclose the structure/ run and have the roost closed from 3 sides with the bottom being open and the non wind side open. That would be the plan even with the sunny side location.

 

[Zwillingsmama]

Here are the pictures

 

[Norcal527]

Looks like a beautiful spot for some chickens!

 

[aart]

I'd use the existing structure.
Any chance of removing the tree that shades the proposed run area?
They need some exposure to sunlight.

 

[Acre4Me]

Also, think the existing structure is the best option. If you can bump it out towards the sun for them to be able to sit in the sun if they choose, that would be great. But, if you plan to free-range some of the time, then that is another alternative to getting sun.

 

[Zwillingsmama]

No chance to remove the tree and it would not matter since my neighbor has evergreen trees on his side too. I could bumb it out but even than it would only get an hour or so late afternoon Sun.

 

[PirateGirl]

I would definitely use the existing structure if you don't have much use for it otherwise! What a great start of a coop/run. The proximity of the wood fence will shelter them a bit from wind as well. Be conscious of the fact that some predators (raccoons come to mind) can use nearby trees to access the chickens within their fence, so if you extend out from the structure you may want to cover the top of the run with something, even aviary netting or something would be helpful.

 

[Zwillingsmama]

Pirategirl. I know that I have to protect the top around the run. There are actually raccoons living/sleeping most nights in the neighbors evergreen tuja tree hedge. The other/old run is electrified and the coop is totally safe but one reason I am rebuilding is that I want the run area also predator proof since I am scared that one day I forget to lock them in or the electric fence fails.

 

[SurferchickinSB]

I am going to built a new coop this summer for my 5 girls and have 2 options on my property. One side is sunny and I would have to built a new coop/run from scratch, the other side has a 10X10 roofed structure and an additional 10x10 area under an evergreen tree. It only gets minimal direct sunlight under the structure and non under the tree. I would prefer using the existing structure because I can't garden there and the sunny side is ideal for gardening. I will take a picture of the structure and possible run area and would appreciate any input if that would be an option.
BTW. I live in the SF Bay Area and plan an very open coop. I think I only use hardware cloth to enclose the structure/ run and have the roost closed from 3 sides with the bottom being open and the non wind side open. That would be the plan even with the sunny side location.

I like the shady areas and I think your chickens will too! My chickens seem like they are always under the bushes or in the shade under the roof in a run that I have. I let them out in the main yard though towards the evening for a couple hours here.

 

[rosemarythyme]

A little sun is good but shade is more important especially in summer.