Large chicken tractor size

[mocattle]

I’m planning to build a large chicken tractor and trying to decide how much space I need inside and outside the coop. Planning to have around 24 birds right now and would like to only move the run every 2-3 days if possible. I’ve got some large 8x8’ wall sections to use for the coop but trying to not make it too heavy to move. Any suggestions on size and methods to move?

 

[aart]

Meat birds or layers?

Size vs mobility is always an issue.
The typical rule of thumb of 4sqft per bird inside coop and 10sqft per bird in run is a decent place to start, but bare minimum IMO.

Much may depend on the condition of the ground(flat/soft/bumpy/etc)....
...and how you plan to move it(by hand or with a vehicle).

Will you be using movable poultry netting for your 'run'?

Might check out these coops for ideas,
tho just because they are there doesn't mean they are functional:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/category/tractor-coops.17/

Oh, and....Welcome to BYC! @mocattle
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, (laptop version shown), then it's always there!

 

[mocattle]

Layers

I thought 10 sqft was a standard total for birds, not just the run area?

I’d like to move it by hand but not sure if the coop will be lightweight enough.

Not sure what you mean by moveable poultry netting?

I’m located in Missouri

 

[mocattle]

Anyone else have an input?

 

[aart]

Not sure what you mean by moveable poultry netting?

https://www.premier1supplies.com/poultry/fencing.php

 

[mocattle]

No I don’t intend to use that type of netting.

So you think I need 10sqft for the run itself, rather than 10sqft total?

 

[aart]

Hard numbers don't really work for space.
Too many variables.
But the common citation of 4sqft per bird in coop and 10sqft per bird in run is a bare minimum, IMO.
You can put them in less space, but be ready for the possible resultant problems.
There's lots of different ways to keep chickens,
but all the successful ways guard against crowding and predators and the weather.