Need a little help.

[shimanole]

It's also a good idea to check out the Emergencies / Diseases / Injuries and Cures and the Predators and Pests sections.

Have an idea of the problems that some people run into so that you approach this with your eye wide open. For example, neighbors' dogs can do a lot of damage very quickly.

Will read it all. Thx

 

[rosemarythyme]

For an 8x8 space for 3 hens (if you can stick with 3) I'd consider an elevated coop that's 4x4 inside an 8x8 run. Reason for the measurements is because lumber generally comes in 4' increments, so this can help minimize cuts and waste. In FL you will want a LOT of ventilation.

OR

Another option to take advantage of your climate would be an open air set up, where the coop and run are combined into one space. So the entire 8x8 would serve as both. The chickens really just need an area with a roost and shelter from winds and the elements. A fully enclosed wood "box" shouldn't be necessary in your environment. Lots of examples here of fully open and partially open set ups: https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/wanted-open-air-coop-pics.1489579/

 

[shimanole]

For an 8x8 space for 3 hens (if you can stick with 3) I'd consider an elevated coop that's 4x4 inside an 8x8 run. Reason for the measurements is because lumber generally comes in 4' increments, so this can help minimize cuts and waste. In FL you will want a LOT of ventilation.

OR

Another option to take advantage of your climate would be an open air set up, where the coop and run are combined into one space. So the entire 8x8 would serve as both. The chickens really just need an area with a roost and shelter from winds and the elements. A fully enclosed wood "box" shouldn't be necessary in your environment. Lots of examples here of fully open and partially open set ups: https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/wanted-open-air-coop-pics.1489579/

Thanks a ton for this info. My biggest concern after researching was how to keep the coop vented. I've been wanting to experiment with solar so I'm thinking about a solar panel fastened to the coop that could power an exhaust fan. Early stages of research so just a thought at this point.

 

[Tookie]

Ventilation is very important.
@3KillerBs can help you with that.

 

[3KillerBs]

Ventilation is very important.
@3KillerBs can help you with that.

I've had a very long and strenuous day on my feet at work, so I'll have to look at this thread tomorrow, but here is my article on coop ventilation: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/repecka-illustrates-coop-ventilation.77659/

 

[3KillerBs]

OK, I *did* remember to come back to this thread, though it took me a while to find it.

It looks like I'm going to have an 8'x8' area to work with. For 3 chickens, if I go 5x8 for the run, can I make a 3x8 space work fir the coop and all of its requirements? Thanks.

Since you live in Florida the best thing possible would be to turn the entire 8x8 space into an Open Air Coop -- a roofed wire box with a 3-sided shelter at the windward end.

I linked my ventilation article above so here's my hot climate article, which features my own Open Air coop: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/hot-climate-chicken-housing-and-care.77263/

1/2" hardware cloth is usually recommended vs predators. Some people reinforce it with a layer of 2x4 wire or field fence if they are concerned that large dogs or other particularly strong predators might break through the hardware cloth.

We absolutely loved working with metal roofing, installing it over purlins and leaving GENEROUS roof overhangs to keep out the rain, even when strong storms blow through.

 

[shimanole]

Thanks for the great info.

 

[Tookie]

Thanks for the great info.

If you have anymore questions just ask!