Need advice: do I have enough space?

[yams202]

Given how many variables there are in determining the necessary space per hen, I thought I should give my specifics. Can I keep 5 barred rocks and 2 Ameracaunas in a 4x4 coop that has open access to a 9x6 covered run? They will have 4 nesting boxes and 7-8 feet of roosting space. They will be fed outside of the coop. They will also have occasional access (on weekends when I can supervise) to my garden area (about 12x40 feet). I live in south florida so snow is not a problem. Oh, also, when can my chicks move on outside? They are two weeks old right now. I'm a first timer at chicken keeping and would love everyone's input. Thanks!

 

[mrchicks]

Hi, and welcome to BYC!

Personally, I think that's a bit tight. We go with 4 square feet per bird inside, and 10 square feet outside. They get fussy with each other when they don't have enough room.

Each bird needs approximately 1 foot of roost space.

With your warmer climate, you should be able to put them out as soon as they have full feathers.

 

[Folly's place]

The coop is really small, but if you convert the coop and run into a full time safe coop, you then have enough room. Welcome! Mary

 

[yams202]

Thank you both. Mary, I am actually doing that. My run and coop will have 12" pavers all around and will be lined in hardware mesh. I think this will keep them safe. My coop will be open to the run at all times. About 70 sq. Feet total.

 

[mrchicks]

That sounds like a great plan! Please post pictures, we all love to see each others coops and birds.

 

[yams202]

I can't wait to post pics but my setup won't be complete for a couple weeks. My coop is a super cute kids playhouse I got on Craigslist and the run is a dog kennel my parents weren't using. Dad is gonna help me with the alterations since I didn't marry my hubby for his handyman skills.

I can't wait to see how it turnsout.