Should food and water be provided in the coop?

[hugene]

I live in Louisiana, with an Eglu Cube coop with automatic door and 13 ft run. I keep feed and water outside the coop in the run. I don't feed inside the coop to avoid rodent issues. Water is also outside for moisture.

How long have you had your Cube and how many hens do you have? I am considering one and am wondering how the coop handles heat. I live in Austin, so it's a bit drier but maybe hotter in temperature.

 

[topochico225]

How long have you had your Cube and how many hens do you have? I am considering one and am wondering how the coop handles heat. I live in Austin, so it's a bit drier but maybe hotter in temperature.

I built the coop on Saturday. 3 standard hens, and I'm hatching some bantams (2 will be inside). I actually think it handles heat really well! I'd recommend it.

 

[tigger19687]

I prefer IN the coop. Keeps daytime critters out. Plus if for some reason the auto door doesn't open they have food/water. Plus I have the door open a while after they awaken. Keeps their shenanigans quieter in the early a.m. .
Also I use the PVC feeders so they are not taking up as much space