you know, I said to myself, why wait? Rharrison needs some advice, and that other stuff can go jump for a minute and when it get's there, it can jump again haha
You're asking exactly the right questions, and there's nothing obvious about it, btw, coop design can make or break a flock.
So we're just about ready to build the gals a proper roosting spot. Let’s walk it, step by step and gentle-like:
The Million Dollar Question: What is a Perch?
It’s their bed, plain and simple. Some chickens take to straw and ground fine, but it seems more Chickens don’t like sleeping on the ground, they feel more vunerable (it's information written into their genes - eat what I need, drink, be safe, and love humans), so they need a raised perch to feel safe, also cool, and off the dirt.
How High Should It Be?
*One level is often enough in small coops. You can get fancy and kep adding layers to it such as my Aunt and the clan on that side of the family. But they are eccentric. You can be too if you want, but usually one level will do:
1. Make it about 12 to 18 inches off the ground - they’ll fly-hop up there just fine.
2. If you go for a second level, make sure it’s at least it's that height up again, so 12 to 15 inches higher than the first, and not directly over the one below (so droppings don’t rain down on the crew living on the first floor).
Ladder Style or Flat Bar?
You can do a ladder-style roost, but space the “rungs” at least 12 inches apart vertically.
If it’s a single level, a straight bar across the coop works beautifully.
How Much Space Per Bird?
**Give at least 10–12 inches of perch length per hen.
**For 5 hens, a 4 to 5 foot long perch is **golden**.
What Should the Perch Be Made Of?
1. Use a 2x4 laid flat (wide side up). That way their feet stay warm and flat at night, not curled like on a round broomstick. Some chickens prefer to grip around on a bar, (we call that quality passerine) but it's few in my experience. But never hurts to have a grippy bar for the quirk chickens who like it.
2. Sand or round edges just a bit, but no need to make it circular.
Does It Need to Go to the Floor?
No, it does not, just keep it higher than the nest boxes, or else they’ll sleep in the nest (and then poop in 'em too). And no need to go too high - 18–24 inches off the coop floor is perfect unless you're building up multiple levels.
TIPS:
***No perches over food, water, or nests.
** No sharp corners or skinny wire.
* Make it easy to clean, because chicken butts don’t lie!
END OF STORY:
If the chickens seem all content, well done! If they side-eye you, some adjustments may be necessary!
sorry this is maybe obvious but i know nothing
thank you again!
