Hello All!

[cdlord]

First let me say that this is an awesome site! SO much information.....

I am interested in having ~4 egg producing chickens in my backyard. I live in Aurora Colorado in a unique little area that allows me to have small livestock (a neighbor has chickens and bees). Anyways, I want to have fresh eggs and possibly even fresh chicken once in a while.

The location I am considering is approx. 6'x10' and I want to build a permanent coop. The area I have selected is on the sunny side of my house (East side). This would include the coop and run (as you can see it's pretty much a clean slate ready for whatever). There are predators around so "backyard free range" probably isn't a good idea though my neighbor does it (but has also stated she's lost several too to predators).


I was reading and the 4 sq/ft recommendation is no problem as I have about 60 sq/ft area chosen and only want 4 or 5 chickens. My main concerns is I live in Colorado, how do I keep them safe and comfortable in the winter? It seems a decently non-drafty yet ventilated coop is best (was thinking of designing openings at the roof level) and since this is Colorado, humidity is not too big a concern. Providing power (for a heat lamp) is not easily feasible. I haven't had the chance to pick my neighbors brain yet either but I plan to.

I also read about the "winter break" for chickens and that isn't a problem. I'm building a personal convenience, not a production facility.

How "stout" should I build this coop? Meaning, insulation, running water, electricity, something a Tiny House fan would move into?

 

[drumstick diva]

Generally chickens tolerate cold much better than heat. I think you would get the best suggestions/ advice from others living in your area. If you put your state name in the search box, it will come up. You can post your questions about weather, predators, etc., and see what other Bycers have to say. Welcome to BYC, hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

 

[sunflour]

glad you have joined us.

I started with 5 x 10 foot all in one coop with the under the coop area included in the run. Maximum IMO for that area would be 3-4 full sized breeds - with under the coop giving them a 2 foot or higher access in the run. Build larger than you think they need or you will be expanding ( as I had to) and it is easier to build BEFORE they move in

The sunny side may be an issue in the summers - they don't like all day sun, so make sure to incorporate shade and an outdoor fan for breezes. For winter (even in Georgia) we need electrical access to keep their water from freezing.

DD has given you the best advice to post the question to those in your area.

Also, once you get a plan, post it under coops/runs forum for more advice.

Good luck with your new adventure.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC - great to have you onboard with us. You have some great advice already, so I'll just say a big hello

Best wishes
CT

 

[chicklover 1998]

First let me say that this is an awesome site! SO much information.....

I am interested in having ~4 egg producing chickens in my backyard. I live in Aurora Colorado in a unique little area that allows me to have small livestock (a neighbor has chickens and bees). Anyways, I want to have fresh eggs and possibly even fresh chicken once in a while.

The location I am considering is approx. 6'x10' and I want to build a permanent coop. The area I have selected is on the sunny side of my house (East side). This would include the coop and run (as you can see it's pretty much a clean slate ready for whatever). There are predators around so "backyard free range" probably isn't a good idea though my neighbor does it (but has also stated she's lost several too to predators).


I was reading and the 4 sq/ft recommendation is no problem as I have about 60 sq/ft area chosen and only want 4 or 5 chickens. My main concerns is I live in Colorado, how do I keep them safe and comfortable in the winter? It seems a decently non-drafty yet ventilated coop is best (was thinking of designing openings at the roof level) and since this is Colorado, humidity is not too big a concern. Providing power (for a heat lamp) is not easily feasible. I haven't had the chance to pick my neighbors brain yet either but I plan to.
Chickens don't need a source of heat they are pretty good at producing enough heat on their own.
I also read about the "winter break" for chickens and that isn't a problem. I'm building a personal convenience, not a production facility.
the winter break is great the only light/heat mine get is what escapes the brooder, the rest of the early to mid winter they don't get any light unless it gets where the birdbath deicer can no longer keep the ice off the water then I will add a heat lamp only had to do that maybe 3 times this winter that was because it was -20 with an even colder wind chill.
How "stout" should I build this coop? Meaning, insulation, running water, electricity, something a Tiny House fan would move into?
you can do insulation but it isn't necessary, you can carry water because if you run water out to the coop you will have to put it very deep to keep it past the frost line, if you want electricity for like a light for yourself when it is darker earlier and you need to get eggs or check on someone.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!