Outdoor section for chicken cop

[ryanpatrick]

I live on a few acres and recently got 6 egg layers. They are being kept in a garage right now. I received a home made coop from someone that is pretty heavy duty. It has 12 sq feet with a separate nesting area (not included in the 12 sq feet). I plan on letting them out to run around the property occasionally but wont everyday. I plan on adding on to this coop to achieve the 4 sq feet per chicken. My question is....should I add on a run that is exposed to the outdoors or add on more interior coop? Is a run required if they get out a few days a week? Thanks for any advice.

 

[limited25]

If you would post a picture of your coop, we would be able to better advise you. Easier to offer options if visual. Also, I think a run would be a good idea.

 

[ryanpatrick]

T
Thanks for the reply. Here is a picture of the coop. I plan on adding on to one of the sides, but like I said, Im just not sure if I should do a run or more coop.

 

[TLWR]

If they aren't out every day for a good chunk of day, you don't want to leave them stuffed in a coop. Build them a run.

 

[ChickenMammX4]

If they aren't out every day for a good chunk of day, you don't want to leave them stuffed in a coop. Build them a run.

Ditto. Most chickens only stay in the coop to sleep and lay, the rest of the time they are outdoors. If you live in an area with a lot of bad weather, I'd cover the run and/or build a larger coop.

 

[Ridgerunner]

If you are adding to the coop, I suggest you look at adding more than the bare minimum. Most building materials come in 4’ or 8’ sections. If you add a 4’ section you can reduce cutting and waste. Just something to consider. There is nothing magical about the four square feet thing. It’s just a number that keeps most people out of trouble most of the time. Some people get by with less, some need more. I would want something bigger. It’s going to be hard to give them enough room to roost without them pooping in any feed or water you put in there.

I also suggest a run, a reasonable sized run. There is no magic in size there either but a run greatly expands your amount of space and gives you a lot more flexibility in how you manage them. I don’t know where you are so have no idea of your general weather, but mine normally spend practically all day outside except when they go in to lay eggs.