Just finished coop - Roost height / "chicken math"

[KWVT]

We recently converted our 12x11 shed into a coop with storage and added a covered run (to hopefully allow them to go out in bad weather/winter - we are in New England).

I got 12 chicks, but I probably should have started with 6 because I already want to get more and they are only 7.5 weeks old. I could probably add 2 or so more based on square footage, but I have committed to waiting until they are fully grown to reassess whether I really should add more.

I'm posting some before and after photos below, but I'm wondering if I should lower the roost a little? They have been trying to roost in the windows, but should I move it down so it sits below the window instead of where it is for when the weather isn't as nice? (Or is it ok that they will be in front of the windows?)




Before:


After:



Bonus chick pics:

 

[Kiki]

Roost looks fine to me.
If you don't want them on the window you will need to figure out a way to block it or add a slanted piece of wood to the oil, something the won't want to roost on.

 

[aart]

Beautiful conversion/addition/modification!!

Even if you lowered the roost, that would be a tempting pace to perch.
So, yes, blocking the window sill is what's needed.

Hmmmm.....
....windows are not covered with HC for predator protection while they are open?
I'd just cover that window from the inside with HC,
that will keep it from being operated but just leave it closed,
because it's not protected from rain coming in anyway,
and you have plenty of other windows for ventilation
(which btw should be covered from the outside with HC).

And/Or

Relocate that window to over pop door where it will be protected and put a top hinged window that can be propped open from the outside where the 'roost window' is.....
.....I'm babbling and can't really tell what windows are where.

Gosh, that's a nice coop!!
Might be some more modifications to make tho.

 

[KWVT]

The window in the back is the one they seem to roost in - you can just see the edge of it on the right in the first photo - though also the main one you see in the first photo too. The windows are all covered from the outside with HC.

There are two over the roost and the third is on the right hand wall at the end of the roost. I have closed the rear window a few times when it was really raining hard, but the way the weather moves so far there doesn't seem to be much of an issue with water coming in thankfully. I guess I just worry if they will be in a draft in colder weather?

I have been moving them at night, but maybe I just don't worry about it? I assume they won't fit as they get bigger (the ledge is only a few inches wide). Or maybe the crazy chickens will still find a way to wedge themselves in there.

Last night:


Yes, that's four.

 

[aart]

I'd put something up there to dissuade them...or not, up to you.

Most windows are kept closed in winter.....and eave and/or gable and/or ridge vents are left open.
http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1048597/ventilated-but-free-of-drafts

 

[Folly's place]

Nice! I would add big gable vents at least, and more/ bigger window openings with hardware cloth. More air and light! Mary