The coop! Henhouse too dark?

[bwebster]

Attached pics!! Is our henhouse too dark? Not much light gets it through the 4" gable vents or when the small window is closed. I thought about putting in a small plexiglass window that would not be operable, open-able. Just a skylight sort of deal.

Just put our 6 week old Barred Rocks out. They're doing great, huddled a bit here and there, but are calm and quiet.

Any tips or comments or thoughts about the set up are much appreciated!!

 

[DobieLover]

Attached pics!! Is our henhouse too dark? Not much light gets it through the 4" gable vents or when the small window is closed. I thought about putting in a small plexiglass window that would not be operable, open-able. Just a skylight sort of deal.

Just put our 6 week old Barred Rocks out. They're doing great, huddled a bit here and there, but are calm and quiet.

Any tips or comments or thoughts about the set up are much appreciated!!

How large is the coop? And the run? Are you planning to let them out of the run?
I would use a sawzall and cut out all of the upper gable corners then back the openings with 1/2" hardware cloth.
Do you have pictures of the interior layout?
I would also add top hinged short windows the length of both sides of the coop as high as you can get them. Back the openings with 1/2" hardware cloth. You can attach Plexiglass to frames to use for window coverings.

 

[bwebster]

Coop is about 3.5x4 with a run section below. Main run is 5.5x10. Pics attached. With the window open its nice and light inside. I had considered removing the gables for more ventilation. There are gable vents on both sides.

We will free range from time to time but I have a bird dog who may present an issue. Primarily they will be enclosed.

Pics attached.

 

[aart]

I see a real problem here.
Rain is not going to flow off that roof.
I'd add some corrugated metal or plastic over the top and allow for large roof over hang to protect that 'window'.

 

[bwebster]

I see a real problem here.
Rain is not going to flow off that roof.
I'd add some corrugated metal or plastic over the top and allow for large roof over hang to protect that 'window'.
View attachment 2120951

Haha! That's been ordered already. Taking forever due to everything going on. I bought the coop as just a shell with this roof. No floor, external nesting boxes, etc. I had planned on that exact use.