How big should the opening to the roost be?

[Sqwidy]

Hi guys! I'm finalizing some coop plans, and was wondering if y'all have thoughts on how big the entrance to the roost should be? (It's for full-sized birds.) Right now I have it at 12"X14". Seem right?

Cheers!

Ashley

 

[ChickenCanoe]

That's big enough. They can squeeze through that but sometimes a dominant bird wants to sit in the doorway and the others won't pass.
They get used to almost any size opening. Mine are from that size up to about 3X4' doors and don't have any issues.

 

[Sqwidy]

Ah, okay cool -- so I could make it bigger if needed. Do you think a bit bigger might be better? Thanks!

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I used to fret about it. Early on we had the chickens use the man doors to the hen house. I just make them whatever size seems to be right for the building. I'd go with what you have and if it seems to be a problem, it's not a big deal to make it bigger. Just a piece of wood, hinges and a latch.

 

[Sqwidy]

Awesome -- thanks!