Fail chicken coop...

[chochopops]

Hi there,
I am a first time chicken owner (had hens for about 5 months).
I built an A frame chicken coop which I thought was awesome and prefect, and it was, in summer. but now its winter - NZ winters = Wind. Rain. FLOODING..
There are other problems with my coop as well e.g Too heavy, Mice infestation, weak door. hard to clean.

I'd like to build a new coop in a different area and make it better. I've seen coops with wire flooring which I really like the idea of. Can anyone give me opinions on this?
I am a novice builder so any other simple plans would be appreciated.

Also, does anyone in NZ (Auckland) know where I can get affordable Chainlink fencing? I want to make a larger run. 6mx8m

Please post pictures of your successful coop below or send me a link~


Thank you~~

 

[4 the Birds]

Build the new coop floor at least 4" up off the ground to keep it dry. I prefer a solid floor with plenty of bedding over any type of mesh floor. You mention that your existing coop is "too heavy". Are you wanting a moveable chicken tractor? There are lot of great coop designs in the COOP section from the tab at the top of the page.

 

[Hummingbird Hollow]

My coop is raised about 2 feet from the ground and I covered the plywood floor with a piece of left-over vinyl from the ReStore (Habitat for Humanit's thrift shop. As for having a mice infestation...purchase a few Buckeye Chickens, I hear they are fabulous mousers and will turn your mice into eggs for your. I also take in the feed at night so that it doesn't attract mice, racoons etc.

 

[teach1rusl]

Are you wanting a tractor or a stationary coop?

 

[chochopops]

Thank you for your reply~

Yes, it is very heavy so its very hard to pick up.
I'd like to build one that is lifted up off the ground to prevent flooding and self cleaning (mesh flooring). I can't seem to find any that has a mesh floor.

What kind of wood or plastic should I use to keep it light but strong?

Thanks~

 

[chochopops]

WOW! Could you possibly post a pic of your coop?
I've got an idea of what I'd like but i'd definitely love to see yours~

 

[Hummingbird Hollow]

I would be happy to post a photo...if I'm the one you're asking. Here's the outside:

I also have a tractor that I tow behind my mini-van/coop which might be an idea for you.

 

[chochopops]

Awesome!
Thank you for the pictures! I think i've got the full picture of what I need to build now~ !

Thank you thank you!