Newbie with the Chicks!

[MoTabAlto49]

Hello! I am just getting started in the world of Chickendom. I have taken care of my neighbor's hens when they go out of town and am finally going to get some for my family! Any suggestions or advice would be welcomed.

I live in Utah so we have everything from freezing snow to blistering heat during the year. I will be trying to build a coop that can withstand all of the fierce elements Utah has to offer. Have any of you done this here?

 

[3riverschick]

Dr. Prince Wood's Fresh Air Coops book. Work in all weathers. Esp. great where there are cold winters. read the fascinating book online at HathiTrust Digital Library.

Modern fresh-air poultry houses; a new book on common sense ...
Woods, Prince Tannat
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=coo.31924003138272;view=1up;seq=7
Check in the BYC "Building coops and runs" forum. Several threads dedicated to folk who study and build these houses.
Best,
Karen

 

[PetesChicks]

The Woods coop is very nice, plenty of fresh air for them. Whatever you decide for a design, though, I would suggest a walk in. My coop is a converted shed, I would never build anything I couldn’t get into and walk around to be able to clean and care for them.

Ventilation is very important, especially in winter. They can take the cold, but moisture in the air (from respiration and poop) can cause frostbite. You need plenty of ventilation (not drafts) to help keep the air dry. Remember, they are wearing natural down coats and don’t mind the cold.

 

[3riverschick]

yup. yup. all very important points, PetesChicks! Thanks for sharing!!