Hi

[Marlene Lohrum]

Hi I’m Marlene and new here and with chickens

So many questions!
We want to start with six egg hens. I need to know how big the coop needs to be if the laying boxes are built on the outside of the coop? Also, can they be free rain and run hens? We live in TN with 3 acres.
Thanks in advance

 

[cooingdove]

hi, and nice to meet you! welcome to our comunnity!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello, Marlene, and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Welcome to our FUNomenal Community!

Best Wishes & Be Well!

 

[416bigbore]

Hello Marlene and welcome to BYC, You found an Awesome poultry Forum to be a part of with many great knowledgeable members who are more then willing to jump in and help you with any questions you may have.

 

[janiedoe]

Hi Marlene, welcome to BYC!
PIt is recommended that they have 3 to 4 sq ft each in the coop (doesn't include space for feeders or nest boxes) and 10 sq ft each in the run. More is better. Even if you intend to free range, it's great to have a covered run. It is a great place to feed and water them. It is a necessity if there are predators, if you are away from home, or if the weather is bad.

 

[N F C]

Hi Marlene, thanks for joining us! @janiedoe has given some good advice.

 

[swampfox440]

Welcome to BYC !

 

[DucksAreBest]

Hello, welcome to BackYard Chickens! Thank you for joining our community.

 

[sourland]

Hello, and welcome to BYC. Free range is great, but understand that eventually there will be losses to predators.