Heat/Insulation

[kim0536]

I live in Peoria, Arizona and I am interested in raising chickens for eggs/pets. My concerns are as follows:
1. How do we keep them alive and cool in the summer!? Do I need to put in insulation when I build my coop?

2. I have oleanders in my back yard (3 bushes). Do I need to remove them?

Thank you!

 

[True Patriot]

Glad to see you.
For 1 choosing heat tolerant breeds, providing shade and lot of water. Lots of people keep chickens in hot areas with a minimum of fuss. Insulation in the walls isn't necessary. In Az, insulating under the roof is an option but not necessary. Proper ventilation is a must. Even worth considering making one entire side wire. There are a lot of options in the coop and run section. Browse around and see if any are appealing. If considering a bought coop. Keep in mind, the stated number of chickens it holds is optimistic at best. You should be thinking 4 sq ft inside the coop per chicken, and 10 sq ft per chicken in the run. A couple of design points to consider important, the coop needs to be big enough for you to comfortably access it for cleaning/maintenance. Walk in is best. There needs to be adequate space, they will fight and pick on each other if cramped. One nesting box for each 3-5 hens, they will most likely all try to use the same one. There's so much more but this should give a start.
For 2 I can't help much. I don't know enough about oleander

 

[Folly's place]

Welcome! As TP said ventilation is most important! Shade, and an insulated roof, will help, and choosing breeds that can handle the heat. Oleander is toxic, and many other plants are too. Chickens generally are good at avoiding stuff that tastes bad, and eating things that are safe. Not having that plant here, try asking on your state's thread. Having other safer things to eat will be a big help!
Mary