Placing a chicken coop

[TLCMidMichigan]

I have 23 acres. But its somewhat open in the middle. Rough at best. With Pines on both east/west sides. Picking a higher and drier spot is what I have to choose. And close to observe.

I am in process of building my coop. Its an 8x10 small barn. I'm modifying the inside for 7 boxes and room to roost (3 rungs 6 feet long). Windows will face south. One will be able to be opened with screen. A 32" wide vent on the north side w/screen. All able to close in the cold weather here.

I'm (daughter) going to try hatching chicks. She's a science teacher and wants the city kids to see new life. We will try 3 doz. Black Copper Marans. I have been in touch with the farmer. So his input is good. I might consider a couple of ducks as well. I have a small 1/5 acre pond.

In past I've raised ponies, horses, Feeder cattle and Silver Fox. So I know the added attention is needed daily.

This is a hobby that should keep me busy. I'm 70 years old now. Hopefully to get some rarer birds for resale later.
Thanks for looking.

 

[Kessel23]

 

[N F C]

You might want to check with other members in MI to see if they have some advice specific to your area. Here's a link to your state thread:Michigan

Best of luck with the building and thanks for joining us!

 

[Joeschooks]

Hello and We’re all chicken mad here and there’s loads of friendly, knowledgeable members who will be pleased to help when needed or simply just chat about all things chicken

 

[ronott1]

Welcome to Backyard chickens!

You will have a very nice coop!

 

[Wickedchicken6]

Hello and welcome to BYC!! It's so nice to have you join us.
Jump right in and make yourself at home.

This video will help you learn how to navigate this site:

CURRENT COOP CONTEST click here >>#1
The 9th Annual BYC Easter Hatchalong!
Awesome contests going on here: Hatch-A-Longs

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask one of us.

 

[Teila]

G'Day from down under TLCMidMichigan Welcome!

I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun.

BYC has Topic of the Week discussions which I have found to be a great resource, informative and sometimes entertaining; so definitely worth checking out.

If you would like to share Pictures and Stories of your flock, you have come to the right place. BYC’ers never tire of these and do not back away slowly or commence eye rolling when the photo album or home videos come out

Including your general location on your profile will assist others. Location, climate, season etc can be important factors when members are responding to any questions you may have and vice versa.

You may be interested in these links:

• Incubating & Hatching Eggs
• Raising Baby Chicks Forum
• Coop & Run Forum
• Duck Forum

 

[Pork Pie]

Hello and welcome to BYC. Best of luck with your coop build

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard chickens - Hope all your projects will be very successful

 

[007Sean]

Howdy Happy to have you join the family. Enjoy your time here at BYC!