Is there such a thing as TOO big a coop?

[DownwardDog]

I'm getting 21 chix (but only keeping 13 layers thru the winter) in a few weeks and hubby is designing the coop. We were thinking of 12x10 ft or 12x12 ft with a few feet of storage inside (minus 24sq ft of brooder space). Since we have cold winters here in NH, what size would be TOO big for the chix to keep themselves warm enough? We aren't heating the coop, we will just insulate it all well and are getting cold-hardy breeds. Any thoughts, experiences? Thanks everyone!
Lenore

 

[Judy]

Not in my opinion!

I have 11 hens in an 11x17 coop (there used to be a lot more.) They certainly don't mind the room. It's great to have the space in the heat of summer because they will go in for the shade, because it catches breezes so it is a little cooler. We store their feed and all supplies right in the coop, and there is even a lawn chair in there.

We have a Canadian member who won't keep chickens in less than 15 sq ft per bird because they choose to stay indoors when the snow is deep. This member has written some articles about coops that have been very helpful to many of our members (patandchickens.) https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/winter-coop-temperatures

If it seems a bit drafty or cold in the winter, you can always put a couple of square bales of hay in there to make a cozy corner for them to use if they wish.

 

[missnu01]

Nope..no such thing...but the bigger the coop the faster you get caught with chicken math.

I have 10 chickens in an 18x20 foot coop...and they are fine in there...and it doesn't smell and everyone is fairly happy...By the beginning of May we will have around 50 chickens or so, and that will be enough room for all them up there. I mean if we go by 4 ft for every bird I could squeeze 90 in there I think...but that seems like way way way too many. I am having a hard time envisioning 50 in the space occupied by 10...but really the 10 will mill about in 1/8th of the coop, but it still seems like a lot of chickens all in one coop...
Anyway with coops bigger is always better. Healthier for the chickens, and for the people caring for said chickens. Easier to keep clean, less fighting and such as well. Cramped quarters breed illness and spread disease, so give as much space as you can...