newbie Q regarding run/pens

[mamichi]

So, I started thinking....could we have a coop and then some sort of portable run/pen? I'm asking for advice/thoughts about letting the chickens run loose in another thread, but if we wanted a run/pen, I'm wondering how hard it would be to corral them into it once we let them out of their coop? I saw these run/pens: http://www.mypetchicken.com/Runs___Netting-Run_for_Chick_N_Hutch-P206.aspx and it gave me the idea of having something similar set out in the yard where we want it each day, and letting the chickens hang out there. My question is how hard would it be to get them to and from the coop each day?

thanks!

Margaret

 

[BeardedChick]

It depends on how many chickens. I would plan on having to catch/carry them. My crew is pretty rowdy when they get out in the morning!

 

[Chicken Woman]

You would probably need to take them to the run by hand but in the evening they usually like to head for the coop. Be careful if you have critters that could dig under and get into your portable run.

 

[FrChuckW]

That is a nice run, but you can probably build your own for a lot cheaper. And depending on the number of birds you plan on having. Check out the coop construction forum for some other ideas on how to build a coop and run.

As someone else has pointed out, you have to be aware of the possiblity of predators when designing your run and coop. If you live in the city then you will have to confine your chickens so as to not upset your neighbors and to prevent them from being attacked and killed by stray dogs and cats. If you live in the country, aside from wild predators on the ground you will also have to contend with airborne predators such as hawks.

If you build an attached run to your coop make sure that you bury 1/4" hardware cloth to the depth of 2 feet along the perimeter of your run. This will discourage the majority of digging predators.

Also make sure that you have some sort of cover to your run, be it wire, wood or whatever. This will discourage predators that climb from getting into your run.

 

[Rode Island Red 2008]

I would make my own out of pallets you can get them for free or 10 bucks and home depot,lowes, or and big store etc

 

[LynneP]

I think the ideal situation is a coop with an attached run, you can get frustrated fast, especially in inclement weather, having to catch chickens. You'll be doing more laundry than chicken husbandry! It's also safer for you and the birds to have access to a run directly from a coop. You can always add a tractor in the summer but for now I'd suggest doing this in a way that is easy/safe for you and the chickens...

 

[lorihadams]

Treats....mine will go anywhere for treats!

Lori