How big does it REALLY need to be

[jj coves]

We have a 18x21 coop/barn that is for our chickens and maybe a goat or alpaca. WE want to build a coop within the coop for the sleeping of said chickens. (or we can call it an enclosed sleeping area) The reason is for double protection at night and so they feel snug. I read that they need 3 feet per hen. AAH we are going to have 30 plus chickens although some will be meat birds and will not be with the rest that long. I am wondering how big the sleeping area actually needs to be? They will be pastured on 1/4 acre plus. We have 2.2 acres and will have them roaming as much as possible. Especially once we get a protector animal. Until then we may rotate enclosed spaces for free ranging. the additional fermented feed, water and nesting boxes will be in the large portion of the coop/barn. Please give me a realistic picture of what they need for sleep only. Or am I crazy for wanting their sleeping place to be enclosed?

 

[imnukensc]

You will need about 120 sq ft (or about 1/3 of your current structure) for a coop and especially if you have cold, snowy winters where the chickens may be confined for days at a time.

 

[Howard E]

What you need for enclosed coop area for the layers depends a great deal on where you live. What is your location? Approximate (state, etc) if possible.

You may want to keep the layers and meat birds apart. They have different needs, feeds, etc. So housing for each.

 

[jthornton]

Add your location to your profile so we know your weather.

For roosts only you need 9" - 12" of roost per bird depending on the height of the roost off the floor. Close to the floor not as much needed as they can just hop up and down and don't need room for their wings to fly up to the roost. The roost(s) should be at least 12" from the wall. I have a 4' x 5' roost box with 11' of roosts about 8" off the floor. It can sleep 12 chickens, I currently have 9.

JT