I've got three ducklings coming in a couple of weeks and I'd like to get started on their coop and run. This time around I'll be adding a single chicken to the mix. The idea is to keep them all together, though we'll see how that works out with the mallard once he gets older...
I've been struggling with some details on how to build a coop for all of them. It's only four birds, but I want them to have room for when I can't free-range them.
What I'm thinking is a 3'x6' coop (around 40" tall.) I'd like to elevate it off the ground enough for them to hang out under it. Past ducks have been able to navigate short ramps (or just fly in) - do you think it'll work if the ramp leads up to a door about 20" up?
I only have a total footprint of about 6'x8' to work with. So after the coop is in I'll only have 6'x5' for a run. And I have to get a small pool in there, too. Do you think that's adequate? They'll probably get out for a bit nearly every day, but I can't guarantee that.
Finally, I'm thinking of deep pile for run cover. I'm no expert on this method, but as I gather you dig down a bit and then fill in with leaves and clippings. Will this work for ducks? Is there another route I should go for both chickens and ducks at once?
Thanks!
I've been struggling with some details on how to build a coop for all of them. It's only four birds, but I want them to have room for when I can't free-range them.
What I'm thinking is a 3'x6' coop (around 40" tall.) I'd like to elevate it off the ground enough for them to hang out under it. Past ducks have been able to navigate short ramps (or just fly in) - do you think it'll work if the ramp leads up to a door about 20" up?
I only have a total footprint of about 6'x8' to work with. So after the coop is in I'll only have 6'x5' for a run. And I have to get a small pool in there, too. Do you think that's adequate? They'll probably get out for a bit nearly every day, but I can't guarantee that.
Finally, I'm thinking of deep pile for run cover. I'm no expert on this method, but as I gather you dig down a bit and then fill in with leaves and clippings. Will this work for ducks? Is there another route I should go for both chickens and ducks at once?
Thanks!