I actually built something that looks ike a coop!

[milo2145]

Hi everyone - I am new here and new to chickens so forgive me if my coop looks very simplistic and a bit crappy.

I built it all from scrap (apart from new hardware cloth and hardware), I used a solid old coffee table for the base and I jigsawed out the top and put mesh down, used an old tree branch for a perch, and some wood we had lying around for the rest.

It is about 5.5 feet long, and about 4 feet tall, it has a nesting box on the back with an egg collection door.

I actually really enjoyed making it, and may even try another bigger one - my chicks will come next week, I am so excited!

anyway just wanted some comments, and give me any advice on baby chicks you want - I need it!

 

[LynneP]

For how many birds, milo? What kind of chickens are you getting? Solid base or wire?

The cage looks fine, you must be in a warm zone.

Would hove to hear more about your plans and where you are located...

 

[norcal]

Ingenious use of an old coffee table. They just don't build things (coffee tables) like they used to.

Where is it going to be? In your backyard or?? Should use pine shavings on the floor if they're little chickies, I know most don't like the wire on their feet. Well, my roos didn't when they were ousted to the rabbit hutch. I used straw, but shavings are easier to clean out. ??

 

[milo2145]

yes I live in south texas - gets cold occasionally, but mostly hot with wicked summers, I have an 8 foot by 5 foot chain link dog run I am going to put it in so they ill have a run.
I have ordered 9 chicks from ideal, my coop I think will fit 6, so I am planning on giving a couple away.

 

[norcal]

For baby chick advice, just do a search. Your babies will have to be in a brooder of sorts w/ heat until they feather out.

 

[LynneP]

This particular cage is big enough for 2-3 birds, milo, *if* you add a run. Are you planning to brood your chicks in this and move to a bigger coop to raise 6?

 

[Cindiloohoo]

Nice looking coop! I never thought of a coffee table like that...ways to recycle!