Laying eggs in "play yard"

[Varrington]

Didn't mean to sound rude. Turn your head for five minutes like going to the bathroom and a dog or fox or coyote would be through it and decimate your flock before you even finish washing your hands. Remember chicken wire is for keeping chickens in. Not predators out. Best of luck.

I didn't take it as rude at all. Great information. So far I haven't seen any fox or coyote. We do have hawks and owls so I put the chicken wire up quickly. I know it's not the best but it was all we had at the time. The coops themselves have heavier duty wire. I am greatful for any and all advice.

 

[aart]

Spent today adding a second coop. Now I have 5 hens and 5 nesting boxes. Go figure they are all in the addition huddled together. Silly ladies. View attachment 1077666 View attachment 1077666 View attachment 1077666

Chances are they will all want to roost(sleep) in one coop,
despite the fact that they are both way too small,
they like to stay together.

Even if you put the coop(enclosed) portions together to form one space with roosts,
it may still be too small for the 5 birds you have.
Crowding can lead to disastrous behavioral issues.
Ventilation is an issue also.
What is your climate/location?

Sorry to be a debbydowner...but better to remedy the situation before they get any bigger and/or winter hits, if you live where there is harsh winter weather.

 

[Varrington]

Chances are they will all want to roost(sleep) in one coop,
despite the fact that they are both way too small,
they like to stay together.

Even if you put the coop(enclosed) portions together to form one space with roosts,
it may still be too small for the 5 birds you have.
Crowding can lead to disastrous behavioral issues.
Ventilation is an issue also.
What is your climate/location?

Sorry to be a debbydowner...but better to remedy the situation before they get any bigger and/or winter hits, if you live where there is harsh winter weather.

Thank you