Enough space for buff hens

[mjroberts]

I have been ready about how many chickens per square foot. I bought six buff Orpington hens and I built a coop with a ten foot run. The coop is 4'x4' with two laying boxes is that enough space for them or do I need to add more laying boxes or what do I need to do before they get old enough to go in the coop.

Thanks mike

 

[Fred's Hens]

First, they won't need nests at all until they are just about ready to lay.. They tend to make a mess of them if allowed access too early. One nest can typically service up to 7 or 8 hens. They love to all lay in the same nest.

As far as space, the whole "rule of thumb" thing is just that. A guide. It helps new folks understand the MINIMUM space required. I don't personally put much stock in those formulas. Chicken's cannot do math. Take it for what it is worth from a long, long time chicken keeper. More space, especially if you live in a colder, snowy climate, is always better than less. Just is. They get on each other's nerves if confined too tightly.

Enjoy your adventure.

 

[mjroberts]

Thanks Fred I hope it is enough space and they don't get on each others nerves. I will hope for the best. What do I need to watch for in case it is not enough.