Currently I have 5 birds - 3 RIRs and 2 BRs - that are 6 months old and laying great! My plan is to get 6 more, different breeds, next Spring. My current coop is 5'x4'(20sqft) with a run 6'x9'(54sqft). Here's what I would like to do. I would like to add a second coop that connects to the run on another side rather than build a new larger coop or expand the current one. I guess my question is, will having 2 coops with a shared run area work? or will they all by nature cram into one coop even if there are two? I will be expanding the run as well, but they will be free-ranging most of the time anyway. Input appreciated, Thanks!
Works for me and my layers. I have a 12 bird coop at the end of the 75' lot that has the main henhouse that normally has 20-25 layers. I can easily divide the lot in two to add in new birds. This gives them time to adjust to seeing each other. Once the new group is old enough to mingle I remove the divider. For the most part they will go to roost in their individual coops, but you may have a few crossovers. Matt
Yeah, it will work. I have (*counting*) 7 coops or coop-like buildings, six of which are occupied. The 7th is my original A-Frame coop and some of the layers use it for laying their eggs upstairs, while the youngsters use the downstairs for secure naps and dust baths and hanging out together when it rains or is really sunny, for shade. For the most part, they all stick to their own coops for night time roosting, but a couple have crossed over to stay with other members of the flock they've determined are their BFFs or something.
I added on to my original 4x4 coop with another 4x4 coop (directly next to it), and then cut a hole through the adjoining walls to form one 4x8 coop.
Yes, two coops are possible.. My only suggest is to remember the rule of thumb about square footage per chicken... Inside= 4 square foot per standard breed bird..Outside= 10sq foot per standard breed bird.. These are not 'set in stone' but just a guide line.. If they are too crowded they might start to peck/pick each other.. It is also hard to control smell if they are crowded==You will need to clean the soil/floor etc more often...
