Enough Space

[EasTex903]

Just curious. Will this be enough space for 4-6 laying hens? It’s about 13x14. I don’t have a run right now but plan to build one in the future. I cannot free range due to predators. It’s not complete yet but pics are below.

 

[Tookie]

That is enough space, you could even fit 18 chickens in that coop. Each chicken needs 10sq ft of run space, 4sq ft of coop space,and 1 ft of roost.

 

[EasTex903]

Thanks. I was just concerned because they won’t have any time outside of there until I build a run.

 

[StinkyAcres]

That coop is more like a run, so I think they will be very happy in there. They will love the fresh air, sunshine, and dirt floor. Just make sure they can't dig underneath the walls - their dirt bathing holes can get pretty deep!

 

[EasTex903]

That coop is more like a run, so I think they will be very happy in there. They will love the fresh air, sunshine, and dirt floor. Just make sure they can't dig underneath the walls - their dirt bathing holes can get pretty deep!

Thanks. I have a 2ft 1/2in hardware cloth apron all around. I then covered that with dirt and large rocks. Hopefully nothing can make it through. I’ll also be installing motion lights.

 

[DobieLover]

That's a great amount of space.
The roosts are awfully high though. I'd lower them.
I'd also add some kind of dry organic substrate for litter so they have something to scratch around in and that will compost the poop load.

 

[EasTex903]

That's a great amount of space.
This roosts are awfully high though. I'd lower them.
I'd also add some kind of dry organic substrate for litter so they have something to scratch around in and that will compost the poop load.

I can absolutely lower the roosts. I just wanted to make sure they were higher than the nesting boxes. I’ll be adding organic substrate for sure because I want the compost for our garden.

 

[linguini]

I can absolutely lower the roosts. I just wanted to make sure they were higher than the nesting boxes. I’ll be adding organic substrate for sure because I want the compost for our garden.

some branches, stumps, or even old planters upside down for them to perch on - they'll love it! You can also tie a ball of swinging weeds from the beam for them to peck/scratch!

 

[rosemarythyme]

I'd consider that an open air coop/run combo, so yes plenty of space for 4-6 hens. If you decide to expand later on, then perhaps adding a bigger run space would be a good addition, but for now you're pretty well set.

And I agree with lowering the roosts, and maybe adding a bit of clutter to the space like stumps or old outdoor furniture, to give them stuff to jump up on, hide behind and explore.

 

[3KillerBs]

I agree with the above -- fabulous space and you won't regret having plenty of room and plenty of ventilation.