Is it enough space

[arhawkeye]

Hello to all. My wife and I are in planning stages for our chickens. I want to build a 6' x 8' coop with 2 boxes for a total of 6 hens. The coop will be elevated and inside of a either 15' x 20' or 20' x 25' run. I live in central SC. What does everyone think?

 

[BayBay Peepers]

I think they will live quite comfortably in that kind of space. Will they always be confined or will they be let out once in a while? I would love to see pictures of your progress.

 

[BayBay Peepers]

I suppose with that much room they probably wouldn't even notice

Welcome to BYC by the way!

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Sounds like a lovely plan - I like to give my birds as much room as possible, and this will afford your girls a nice amount of room (and leave room for a little chicken math, lol)

 

[arhawkeye]

I would like to let them free range but my back yard only has a 4' high fence and is only about a half acre. Unless I can keep them in then I am all for it.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Also -

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I would like to let them free range but my back yard only has a 4' high fence and is only about a half acre. Unless I can keep them in then I am all for it.

What breeds are you considering? Some are more flighty than others. You can also use wing clipping as a way to limit flight abilities.

 

[arhawkeye]

We were looking at Barred Rocks and RIR. But they will share the backyard with my 4 boys and a spoiled rotten (chicken) Boykin Spaniel. Also, does the run have to have a top on it?

 

[Folly's place]

Covered runs are much safer. Keeping your birds safe from predators is most important. Build safe to start, and you'll do a lot less grieving.

Mary

 

[BayBay Peepers]

We were looking at Barred Rocks and RIR. But they will share the backyard with my 4 boys and a spoiled rotten (chicken) Boykin Spaniel. Also, does the run have to have a top on it?

It would be a good idea to cover it. You'd me amazed at what can get through, over, and under a fence.
We put up a four foot fence to keep our flock out of the garden and they never went over it. I think your fence will be high enough to keep those breeds in