New chicken owner from Washington State

[sarsar]

My 11 year old daughter is raising 8 hens. We are getting ready to build a coop, but can't agree on walk in or tractor. Anyone have any opinions.

 

[drumstick diva]

I think a walk in coop would be better for that number of chickens. They have more freedom. Most chicken tractors are low to the ground, so the birds are bent over for all of their time inside one. I think they would rather fly up on roosts, and get to be silly like chickens.

 

[sumi]

Welcome to BYC

I'd suggest a walk-in coop. For 2-3 hens a tractor is great, but larger numbers need more space and then a tractor can be tricky. Here's some more on coop space requirements and loads of coop designs you can check out for ideas:

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

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/2/Coops

Enjoy the site!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[Frindizzle]

Welcome to BYC!

I recommend tractor if you have around 5 hens, it's easy to move, and there is no coop cleaning.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC - you have some great advice already so I'll just say hello!

All the best
CT

 

[sarsar]

Thanks for the advice. We are very overwhelmed by this whole chicken thing. They are great birds, very friendly and my daughter is able to take care of them. The hard part is building the coop and where to locate it. I think we will do an army theme because my son is in the army and we like to honor the service.

Sarah

 

[henny1129]

Welcome to BYC! I'm kinda late for advice plus you've already been given great advice, so I'm just stopping in to say hello! The army theme sounds really cool! Do you know what breed the chicks are? Good luck!

 

[sarsar]

We have two bantams, two blacks sexlings, two easter eggers, one mille de fluer and one old English bantam.

 

[henny1129]

We have two bantams, two blacks sexlings, two easter eggers, one mille de fluer and one old English bantam.

Cool! Easter Eggers are great!