Minimum space

[tulippond13]

So, I'm getting ready to buy some chickens and I really would like to be prepared. I've looked at multiple sources and some say they need 2 sq ft and others say 5. Is there a set number?

 

[lightchick]

2 sq feet per chicken in some books I've read and 1 1/2 sq feet in others. It also depends on how much room you have in your outside run. The 5 sq foot thing is probable for chickens with no outside run.

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

They say about 4 or 5 square feet per bird in the coop. And this is floor space, not including roost bars or nest boxes. 10 square feet per bird in the run. But the more room the better. Chickens go off on each other very easily when cramped in. So I can't stress enough to give them plenty of room and not to squeeze them in.

Here is an article in our learning center on space requirements...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/how-much-room-do-chickens-need

You might also do some reading in our entire learning center for lots of other tips on raising your new flock...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

Enjoy this new journey you are on and welcome to our flock!

 

[tulippond13]

Oh okay!!!! Thank you for the information. It helps a lot!!

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC.

Glad you joined us!

 

[tulippond13]

Thanks for the warm welcome!

 

[sourland]

TwoCrows is right on the money with her space recommendations. Generally the more space provided, the less the problems.

 

[tulippond13]

Okay, that's a good thing to keep in mind. These all really helpful, thanks again!

 

[mschicklady]

I have an almost 200 sq ft outdoor run. My nesting boxes measure 12"x12"x16" and an 18"x13' "porch" on the outside of the nesting boxes. How many chickens would you believe is appropriate for this space? Do you think my nesting boxes are too small?

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! X3 on TwoCrows post, good luck with your coop build!

mschickenlady, I am not quite following how big your actual coop is? Do you have an open air coop that is not enclosed on most sides? How much covered space, roosts etc do you have? 12x12x16" nest boxes are fine for most standard birds, if you have some real big breeds you might want to go larger.