Opinions on this small coop!

[nminusyplusm]

That sounds like a good idea! We’re not too handy though, so I need something simple. Unless I can get some help! Lol

I think a simple wood coop is doable even if you're not that handy but you could always go the shed conversion route. Also check your local craigslist if money is tight, you might find a great prebuilt coop super cheap that way.

 

[RookyChickMama]

I just don't believe it would fall out instead of build up and turn into a mess.

Where in TX are you? What kind of weather do you get? And how much room do you have that you could use?

I can say from experience that you always want to build bigger than you think you need. I wish I had!

We’re around Fort Worth Texas. So hot summers, usually winters aren’t that bad. I have a small fenced in backyard, I was thinking about maybe doing a 10x5 run, but also letting them free range when we’re home.

 

[Sunshine Flock]

Do you already have some chickens, or would this be your first flock?

I converted an old shed. For the brooder box, we used a cardboard box for the first couple of days. Panic set in when they suddenly sprouted little wings overnight. My husband grabbed some scrap wood and a roll of 1x2" welded wire he got for $5 (crazy deal) and built a large, wonderful home for them.

And when my rooster was injured, we used the brooder as a recovery pen for him, so it has served double duty for us. Now it's store on its side in the wood barn and is used as a storage box until the next time it's needed for the chickens.

 

[nminusyplusm]

We’re around Fort Worth Texas. So hot summers, usually winters aren’t that bad. I have a small fenced in backyard, I was thinking about maybe doing a 10x5 run, but also letting them free range when we’re home.

I live in the desert so I know having enough room for air flow is crucial. Something small will turn into an oven fast. You definitely want something taller and roomier. If space is tight in your yard, do a search for the Wichita style coop. It's very adaptable and gives birds an extra shady spot under the coop area without adding to its footprint.

 

[RookyChickMama]

Do you already have some chickens, or would this be your first flock?

I converted an old shed. For the brooder box, we used a cardboard box for the first couple of days. Panic set in when they suddenly sprouted little wings overnight. My husband grabbed some scrap wood and a roll of 1x2" welded wire he got for $5 (crazy deal) and built a large, wonderful home for them.

And when my rooster was injured, we used the brooder as a recovery pen for him, so it has served double duty for us. Now it's store on its side in the wood barn and is used as a storage box until the next time it's needed for the chickens.

We have had other chickens, but currently only a couple game roosters that are penned up individully. We have a good size shed with six individual stalls, that are 6x4. Yes I’ve been there with the brooder box, we usually keep them in a good size rubbermade tote until theyre able to fly out of it, then we move them to an empty pen in the shed... but silkies will be new for us.

 

[RookyChickMama]

I live in the desert so I know having enough room for air flow is crucial. Something small will turn into an oven fast. You definitely want something taller and roomier. If space is tight in your yard, do a search for the Wichita style coop. It's very adaptable and gives birds an extra shady spot under the coop area without adding to its footprint.

Thank you! I’ll check it out!

 

[Sunshine Flock]

We have had other chickens, but currently only a couple game roosters that are penned up individully. We have a good size shed with six individual stalls, that are 6x4. Yes I’ve been there with the brooder box, we usually keep them in a good size rubbermade tote until theyre able to fly out of it, then we move them to an empty pen in the shed... but silkies will be new for us.

One of those stalls would be a good size for your silkies. Frame in the opening with 1/2" hardware cloth, cut a chicken door, attach the run, secure any small openings, add ventilation, and that's it!

 

[RookyChickMama]

One of those stalls would be a good size for your silkies. Frame in the opening with 1/2" hardware cloth, cut a chicken door, attach the run, secure any small openings, add ventilation, and that's it!

That’s a good idea, I’ll have to run it by my husband!