Moving with Chickens & Pre-Made Coops: Opinions needed!

[hensandchickscolorado]

We are moving and the buyers of our house want our chicken coop. Soooo, I've got to build another one at the new house. I will not have time to do this between the closings of the 2 houses (or much time thereafter, really), so I think I want to just order one of those premade ones with the small run incorporated and use that until I build something next spring. I have three hens who have yard access a few hours a day.

Does anyone have any experience with these? I know most people think they are horrible, but maybe there are one or two out there that are decent (and under $300-ish) that would last a year or so. Would love your thoughts.

Any other thoughts on moving with chickens very welcome as well. I guess we just load 'em up in a dog crate and introduce them to their new home. Should I worry about new parasites or bacteria in the soils??


Thanks!

 

[Erin~TheChickenLover]

I recommend hoop coops. You can make them as big or small as you like and compared to a normal run, they are easier and quicker to build. They are more functional IMO as well. It is a 2 person job in most cases to make them. You could stick whatever coop you wanted inside one or attach a coop to the outside. Hoop coops: https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/270088/permanent-hoop-coop-in-progress-update-see-post-34
As for what pre-fab coop to get, I really have no idea. Dog houses, play houses, sheds, can all make great coops and can be cheaper. I would look in one of those areas before buying a pre-fab coop.

 

[Erin~TheChickenLover]

Here is a dog house from Tractor Supply for only $129 (price may vary by location). The top opens so it would be easy to clean. This in my opinion is better than a little pre-fab coop. And, it's waaay cheaper. http://www.tractorsupply.com/ware-manufacturing-premium-doghouse-large-1039751

 

[CelticOaksFarm]

Don't buy that dog house! Our local TSC has one in and it's very cheap, thin and flimsy. You would be better off with a dog kennel and a poultry pod coop to get you by until you build a new one.

 

[chickencoop789]

Why would they want your chicken coop? Its yours......right? But anyway...if you only need it for a year, you can just use a sturdy dog house and make a temporary run around it and attach a nest box. But if you would prefer a real coop, here are some links.

http://www.petco.com/N_25_10354_30_4294949772/Bird-Supplies-On-Sale.aspx

http://www.wholesalechickencoops.com/chickencoop.html

http://www.cumfychickencoopsnhutchs.com/

http://www.chickencoopauthority.com/

These are just some sites with good coops and reasonable prices.