Thinking of using swingset frame as basis for new bantam coop....

[bkreugar]

Thinking of using swing set frame as basis for new bantam coop. So like an A frame coop. Kids are now 8 and 13 so it doesn't see much use anymore. This would be our second coop and ONLY for bantam sizes.

SO I'm thinking I want HArdware cloth on bottom on ground so nothing can dig IN. I am thinking run down below at widest part, Top part being coop with roost pole and nest box(s). Run would be made from same hardware cloth (we already have a good amount anyway). I am Indecided on coop floor. I'd something easier to clean than our original coop. So more hardware cloth comes to mind, so everthing falls to ground. BUT I think nope they will kick out nest bedding and some of the poop will not fall to ground. SO How can I make it easier to clean?

Next thing i've learned is there can be NO small openings. My oringinal coop had an overhang . So the small space between roof and support, RATS got in and killed 1/2 growns that would not roost. They did not bother my full grown roosting chickens.

I have thought on this over the summer and that is what ~I~ have come up with from what i've learned in the last 4 years of keeping chickens. What helpful info could you add TIA.

 

[ChickInDelight]

I love ideas that re-use materials. Does the set have a slide that can be used somehow - like a removable tray under the roost?

 

[bkreugar]

Id DOES have a slide, but it is a wavy plastic slide so I don't see how I could reuse it. Sorry. Yes I too am a huge fan of the reuse stuff.

My current coop is a reconfiguration of the old owners goat house. IT was falling apart so we tore it apart and reused most of it.

 

[stubbornhill]

Sounds like a great idea! You see the little "A" frame coops advertised often. Yours would just be bigger! I would think that you might not want to use hardware wire on the coop floor. It might be a little rough on thier feet walking around. Could you maybe get a scrap piece of linolium somewhere? I wouldn't think you would need much. The slide idea for under the roosting pole sounds like a great idea too! Can't wait to see pics.