I love all of these designs. They really give me lots of ideas. My tractor is being built starting this week and I can't wait! I'm lucky, though. I have an agriculture class that is building it for a project! I am providing materials. They have researched and came up with designs for me. Great learning opportunity for them. I will take lots of pictures when they start building.
Imagine that a safecracker (raccoon) or a big mean hungry dog/lion/bobcat was trying to bust in. Chicken wire will NOT hold, and preditors both push and pull. Just imagine allot of ripping and tearing at all parts of the tractor---it takes only one weak spot. Had I got better wire and bracing in and out my first batch would be feeding me and not lunch for raccoons and dogs.
I built my tractor from plans I bought- which I can share if anyone wants!
It is perfect for 4-5 chickens, and moves easily. It is 4 feet wide and 8 feet long, and 7.5 feet tall so I can walk in. I made some changes to it, as I like things easy to reach, clean, etc.
You cannot see it but there is a ten inch rim of fencing on the interior on the ground to prevent critters from digging under.
My first project building, and I had a great time!
The grass underneath the coop is doing much better now. We had had construction in our backyard, and the concrete mix killed off a lot.
My DH added wheels onto the base so I can wheel it.
Here are a few of my designs. We offer many options for keeping predators out including wiring options, electric fencing, and deck boards along the base of the coop. These are open air designed tractors.
Nice Show Everyone! I am interested in building a tractor...the style that would work for me are the ones shown by Stephen-tx and mobilechickencoop. I want something that can be pulled by the lawnmower, but not too high profile. So THANKS and keep those pictures & ideas coming
I don't think you need as much room for a meat bird as you would layers. Plus you really don't need to build the roof as high as their legs can't hold them going up and down a ladder into a coop. I know I have a link to a PVC tractor around here some where. BRB