So, my run stinks. literally.

[BReeder!]

also, do i have to feed them when they free range?

Generally, yes. Although I don't think free range is your only option. And they still need a covered coop structure even if the free range.

 

[The WinterWolf]

That run size would work for 13 birds, although just barely. Enlarge the coop/ covered area and incorporate roosts. A few thick branches can make roosts and a tarp can be used to provide cover for now until you are able to build a more sufficient coop with supplies like plywood and lumber.

i have roosts, but the coop is too small. i knew that from the start, but i never expected 13 chickens

 

[The WinterWolf]

Hey! i got an idea! what if i turn my pen into a coop? i put straw down, cover the top and sides, and put in plywood for roosts? would that work?

 

[The WinterWolf]

Hey! i got an idea! what if i turn my pen into a coop? i put straw down, cover the top and sides, and put in plywood for roosts? would that work?

and during the day, let them free-range

 

[BReeder!]

i have roosts, but the coop is too small. i knew that from the start, but i never expected 13 chickens

Think outside the box too save money. You just need to provide shade, wind protection and rain protection. A tarp and a few sticks and zip ties and there you have it.

 

[BReeder!]

and during the day, let them free-range

Plywood for roosts... roosts are thin, think a thick branch or a 2x2 or 2x4 board. Plywood would be great as poop boards under the roosts though, which helps you collect the pool and keep it of the ground. Add sand to the poop boards and you clean them like a litter box.

 

[The WinterWolf]

Plywood for roosts... roosts are thin, think a thick branch or a 2x2 or 2x4 board. Plywood would be great as poop boards under the roosts though, which helps you collect the pool and keep it of the ground. Add sand to the poop boards and you clean them like a litter box.

yeah, ok. that was a dumb idea. how about 1 inch by 4-5 feet? i will sketch some designs! i am super exited! do you think it will work?

 

[BigBlueHen53]

can you please tell me what those accommodations are? that may help.

our yard is 5 acres, and just "Eyeballing it" it looks as if my run is about 13 by 10 feet or so.

My accommodations will not work in your coop, it's way too small. I have a roost along one wall that's 15 x 72" long; half the birds, the younger ones, roost there. The remaining birds, the older ones, roost on a pallet, 4' x 6', that is against the other wall. There is a space of about 2' separating these two roosts. Nobody is crowded. If they want to snuggle, they do. If they want to space themselves apart, they can. There is no bullying or feather-pecking. This is not an ideal set-up, there are problems with it and I don't recommend it, but it works for now.

 

[The WinterWolf]

My accommodations will not work in your coop, it's way too small. I have a roost along one wall that's 15 x 72" long; half the birds, the younger ones, roost there. The remaining birds, the older ones, roost on a pallet, 4' x 6', that is against the other wall. There is a space of about 2' separating these two roosts. Nobody is crowded. If they want to snuggle, they do. If they want to space themselves apart, they can. There is no bullying or feather-pecking. This is not an ideal set-up, there are problems with it and I don't recommend it, but it works for now.

so, will turning the whole thing into a coop work?

 

[BReeder!]

yeah, ok. that was a dumb idea. how about 1 inch by 4-5 feet? i will sketch some designs! i am super exited! do you think it will work?

I would aim for at least 1.5" which is the width of a 2x4 or 2x2. 1" may be too narrow.