Help me modify my prefab coop?

[MagistraTn]

we have 7 barred rocks who are just 2 weeks old. Of course, the lady at tsc said this coop would be great for 6 (they sent us +1) and my son loves a project, so…this is what we have (bonus chick pic)

the “run“ portion has 9 sq ft. And the coop portion has about 5.5 sq ft. This whole structure will be placed inside a predator proof (hardware cloth buried to 18”, roofed) 160 sq ft. Run. i am also concerned about the ventilation, as there is only one small (1’3”x5”) window. There are gaps between the roof, maybe an inch or less. Then there are 3 nesting boxes.

my first idea was to extend the floor out into the run across 1/2-2/3 of the space and move the ramp to the other side. We would probably need to add a little protective wall area. We are not the handiest family, but I suspect our ability is about to increase through experience.

my second idea was to simply add another nesting box on the outside and put another roosting bar above where the current nesting boxes are. I think I could easily find some nesting boxes to affix, but I’m not sure that would give our 7 chickies enough space? It would at least get enough for 1’ roost for each (or within 5%)

if I need to add extra ventilation I was thinking we could cut a window above where the ramp is now (and or on the sides of the nesting boxes) and cover with hardware cloth.

we are grateful for any input from the experienced elders here

 

[MagistraTn]

Ack, did I post this in the wrong spot? I cannot seem to move or delete.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

That coop is really not enough for 6. I have 4 polish currently in one and it only works for them because they are calm around each other and are let out for some time usually. Polish are a smaller shape than barred rocks, and BRs are usually more on the pecking, aggressive side when stressed

 

[JacinLarkwell]

General rules are 10 Sq feet per bird in the run and 4 Sq feet in the coop per bird.

 

[WIchickMama]

That coop is really not enough for 6. I have 4 polish currently in one and it only works for them because they are calm around each other and are let out for some time usually. Polish are a smaller shape than barred rocks, and BRs are usually more on the pecking, aggressive side when stressed

agree with this, my polish are more tolerant than my barred rock-she can be nasty.

I think that an addition is needed, more ventilation, wider roosting bars and then ensure that all doors and windows are secure with updated locks and hardware cloth (window) if it isn't already there

 

[MagistraTn]

General rules are 10 Sq feet per bird in the run and 4 Sq feet in the coop per bird.

Yep, that’s why I’m trying to figure out how to modify it

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Have you considered the dog kennels that tsc sells? They're between 300-400 and are like 10x8 I'm guessing. You can put the coop in there, make it all into a solid coop and then they can use the kennel for a pen

 

[MagistraTn]

Have you considered the dog kennels that tsc sells? They're between 300-400 and are like 10x8 I'm guessing. You can put the coop in there, make it all into a solid coop and then they can use the kennel for a pen

I am having a 10x16‘ predator proof run built, and was going to place this coop inside.

 

[rosemarythyme]

7 chicks, and the total sq footage of the footprint on this coop is 9 sq ft? Even if you modify this entire unit into a coop (which is what I often recommend as a "fix") the footprint of this unit is not big enough for 7 chickens.

Realistically you need something closer to 28 sq ft for a coop. Any possibility of having a coop built into your 10x16 run? If your climate is agreeable to it, you don't need a fully enclosed coop, just a draft protected area for the chickens to roost in and shelter in during storms.

 

[Iluveggers]

What does the whole coop look like from the outside? Can you post a pic of it from the TSC website if you don’t have a pic already? Your barred rock is so cute! I have 3 and they are my favorite breed (so far…trying out a few new ones this year!)