Hello, I'm David. Before I continue let me mention I'm currently 18, I'm from Illinois and recently decided to get chickens. I've decided on Rhode Island Reds because my research shows that they are great for beginners, are fairly quiet and will adjust well to confined space. The number of hens can vary from 4-6 with no intention of a rooster. It needs to be fixed in one spot with an enclosed run. What I would like help with is designing a coop that will be cost effective, withstand Illinois winters and be comfortable for the hens. If you have a design or know a link feel free to message me. Also, any advice pertaining to Rhode Island Reds or general care would be appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read this. (No budget has been established yet but I would like to keep it under $400 if possible. If not, so be it)
Head for the coops forum at top of page, a lot of people on here build their own coops and re-purpose materials or get some from Habitat stores, etc. It doesn't have to be glamorous chickens aren't fussy. I would advise good insulation if you are in the northern 1/3 of the state.
Hello and welcome to BYC Lots of lovely coop designs here: https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/2/Coops Have fun!
Greetings from Kansas, David, and ! Great to have you here! I concur with drumstick and sumi. Good luck and have fun with your project and with your chickens!!
