New here and coop advice appreciated!

edselpdx

Songster
11 Years
Nov 10, 2008
196
2
111
Portland, OR
I will be adding 3 pullets/hens to my menagerie here in urban Portland, OR early next spring. I have an existing (underutilized) shed in my backyard that's about 12 x 8 feet. I hope to partition about half of it for coop use, and add a secure run area of approx 30' x 5-6'. I have a dachshund who's already expressed interested in my friends' chickens (and brought me a baby possum last weekend), so I know I need a dachshund-proof--and oppossum-proof-- run).

I'm figuring 1/2 to 1/3rd of the shed for the coop and an at least partially covered outdoor run for daytime. Any hints for how best to adapt a prefab wooden shed appreciated. I'm thinking about a raised coop inside the shed at 3 feet or so off the ground to facilitate access and just building a ramp down to the run. I'll have some storage under the coop in the shed for feed bags, grit, DE, etc. Planning on a DLM coop.

I have acquired an old round-rung ladder that I can cut up for a roost... are the approx 3/4" dowels too small?

I've learned lots already here on BYC, and am looking forward to more!

ed
 
Sounds like you will be making a very nice hen-friendly setup there
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Be aware that the only benefits of deep litter you'll get in a raised wood-floored coop is lower maintenance and a little more litter for them to snuggle into on cold days -- there will be no meaningful composting, heat generation, etc. Not a problem, just something to know.

I have acquired an old round-rung ladder that I can cut up for a roost... are the approx 3/4" dowels too small?

They'll sit on 'em if nothing else is available, but it's much narrower than they'd prefer. Something more in the 2-4" range would be a LOT better.

Welcome to BYC and have fun,

Pat​
 

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