How to improve this coop? (pictures)

attached_mama

In the Brooder
9 Years
Mar 19, 2010
67
0
39
Outskirts of Pittsburgh
We bought this coop for cheap on Craigslist, knowing we will need to make modifications.
Measurements: It's height in the front is 5'3" and slopes back to 4'2". It is 4'1" wide by 3'8" deep

We have no chickens yet. I hope to buy 6.

~I think we will need to expand. How many chickens will fit in it now?
~We will need nesting boxes, should we cut into a side, and build them on the outside? How many for 6?
~I will reinforce the chicken wire with something heavier
~I need to fix the roost, maybe add another?
~I hope to build more of an edge around the bottom, and use the deep litter method, do you think it will be OK?
~Is the wire upper floor ok? Should I use a wooden bottom instead?
~to expand, should we build on from the side, back, or other?
~we are in Pennsylvania, do I need to enclose it more now, or wait till fall or cooler temperatures?

What do you suggest?

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IMG_7013.jpg

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for size reference
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IMG_7016.jpg


Thanks!
 
Cover the whole thing with wood, make it a double-decker coop and build a run. Right now I wouldn't put more than two or three bantams in it....If you modify it you can easily fit in 6 standard birds.
Put nest boxes on the inside of the coop. The more opening you have in the coop, the more chances for a predator to get in.
The roost should be fine just make it more sturdy by attaching it better.
A racoon( which I know you have a lot in penn.) could easily tear through the chicken wire. I would add something stronger like welded wire or hardware cloth.
I would put a lip around the opening so no shavings fall down.
If you were to build a run on the outside, I would go through the side to prevent mud from water dripping off the roof.
I think you made a good deal buying that coop. Modify it a bit, add a layer of paint,(get some chickens) And it will look beautiful!

Mike
 
Ditto Cowman. Definitely cover the whole thing... a skunk, opossum, or raccoon can grab a hold of any part of the chicken and pull it to the wire...the rest is history. Your kids are going to have so much fun with this chicken adventure!!
yippiechickie.gif
 

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