Newbie

[MiMito3]

Hello, I just bought 40 acres in the Colorado mountains. It gets to be around 25-30 below zero in the winter at night and I am considering chickens. Is this possible? This is a structure we are thinking of using. The enclosed part for the coop and fizzing the outside covered area as the run. What would you experienced people suggest. TIA for any suggestions.

 

[MiMito3]

 

[Dr Evy]

Welcome to BYC. We’re so glad you joined! Good luck with your plans!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
Yes, that can be converted into an excellent chicken coop with the addition of lots of ventilation and making it secure from predators.

 

[MiMito3]

Yes, on the run area we plan on adding a board across the bottom and more upright posts to roof then hardware cloth covering and into the ground a foot or two. There are open areas at the top and I’m wondering if anything can get in through the open areas between the boards up by the roof, probably 4 inches tall by 12-16 inches wide and also whether this is too much ventilation in the winter on the inside coop area. So much to think about.

 

[Marie2020]

Welcome to our world and

 

[sourland]

Hello, and welcome to BYC.

 

[DobieLover]

into the ground a foot or two

Go out 18-24" with an apron instead of down.

I’m wondering if anything can get in through the open areas between the boards up by the roof,

I would secure these areas with 1/2" hardware cloth.

 

[SilverBirds]

Hello, and welcome!

That would make a very nice coop. You need good ventilation to start. You want enough air flow so they don't get to hot in the summer, but you also want it to stay warm and draft free in the winter.

Adding insulation will also help keep them nice and toasty.

Best of luck!

 

[Boppo]

Glad to meet you! There are members here who live in similarly extreme climates. You can check to find folks near you in your region here, and you can also browse coop design here.

That is a really great start to your chicken coop and run. Best wishes with your construction, birds and all your plans!