Plastic barrel coop

[LillyBantam]

Hey everyone.

I am going to move my ducks out of the chicken coop for nights because they are so fidgety and upset the hens all night. I decided this summer (that due to a red mite infestation) I would not buy any more timber products for my birds. So I'd like to get a plastic house for my ducks. The only thing is these are very expensive, and I set about finding an alternative. I came across plastic barrels. Some companies sell them ready converted, I am happy to convert one myself, it will be fun and I can design as I wish.

Has anyone else used one of these? Are they warm enough in winter and cool enough in summer (nights only as free range during the day). If it works out I might do one for the hens too so they never have to experience the dreaded mites again. I would obviously fill with hay or straw for extra warmth in winter.

My ducks would prefer to stay out all night, i'm sure, but I want to protect them from predators and keep them warm/dry.

I can't find any reviews on them in terms of their suitability for poultry.

Thanks.

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/452573/barrel-coop-looking-for-venting-ideas#post_5697959
Here is a thread you might enjoy.

I don't know how it would fare in wintertime, however, in terms of keeping the chickens warm enough. Or cool enough in summer.