So I decided to build an underground coop: UPDATE pg 33

[Year of the Rooster]

Looks like you are off to a good start! I like the idea! But one question: Will you need to make the "roof" ,so to speak, peaked at some point as to not make puddles on it? Just a thought

 

[patandchickens]

Just curious, is this a cut into a bank (with its bottom still above the downhill grade level), or is it an actual hole? And, what keeps it from turning into a giant bathtub come spring melt or big rainfall?

Interesting idea, looking forward to seeing how it works for you,

Pat

 

[d.k]

* Pat! That's my DH'S question, too! Thanks for asking it for me, I couldn't figure out how to phrase it.

 

[lovemychix]

I want one!!! The ground is geat wind break in winter and still being outside. That is awesome.

I would make sure you have draintile or some drainage around it. I'm sure you thought of that!!

 

[mtnhomechick]

Very Cool. How will you ventilate and clean it?

 

[digitS']

Some one on BYC was once talking about her grandmother keeping chickens in the cellar. The hens had a pen above ground.

I may have not quite understood but the picture in my mind was that the cellar was detached from the house and the pen covered the area of its roof.

We may think that left to themselves, all chickens choose to roost in trees. In Southeast Asia, in villages with few trees - the chickens crawl under the houses and "roost" there.

Steve

 

[setter4]

Oh lordy, I have to keep my DH from seein this thread! He will have the back-ho out yet tonight!

 

[ozark hen]

You started off real well....but then came the neighbor! I am sure your wife would have appreciated it much more if you had done all the digging yourself and used up a lot of that energy! I see a couple of my fav guys have posted on here...they should be helping you!!

We all will be waiting for updated pics. Really cool idea!

 

[Omran]

Very nice idea, I would make sure that the walls are concrete poured and the floor too, and don't forget the drain pipe around foundation.
I am not trying to be smart, I know you know that just to reminde you.
But really I love th Idea, I think it will be a very beautiful and great chicken house.
Best luck.
Please keep us posted.
Omran

 

[Msbear]

Great Idea!! Like 1much said, It will provide cooler temps in the heat of summer and warmth in the winter...way to go green

And chickens instincively like holes. When my roo was chased by another roo and ran away...

I was so bummed. I couldn't find him anywhere!! My dad said, "Don't worry, he's probably down a hole somewhere. He'll come back when the coast is clear." He said that chickens will look for holes to hide in when they are being chased.

Sure enough, I heard him crow in the morning. He was under my neighbors crawlspace...happy and healthy!!