how many hens for 3.5x 6 coop?

[gitlost80]

The coop we have built has an inside size of 3.5'x 6' and 5' tall. It is built inside a 15'x15' chain link dog run lined with chicken fencing. My question is, How many chickens is a good number for this space? They will also be let out occasionally to roam the 1/2 acre back yard. Thanks in advance...

 

[kathyinmo]

Figure 4 sq feet per bird for a coop. 6x3.5= 21 sq ft.
So, you have room for 5 chickens.

 

[gsim]

Like Kathyinmo said. And the 4 sq ft/chook is a minimum. In cold climates or very wet climates, is better if more space due to them being inside so much of the time. I did 5 sq ft/chook for mine. I did 80 sq ft / chook for their run.

 

[jamespm_98]

I have a 3X6 chicken tractor and have kept up to four birds with no issues.