Two coops?

[Chickenmama1614]

I have a second batch of chicks that will be moving into a second seperate coop. This coop is large enough to hold ten chickens. Currently I have one large enough that holds 14. In order to introduce the new flock, I have the new coop with a run attached to the other run with a fence that divides the two. Once they are full size and I merge them into one, i just plan on removing the divider. My question is..... If I keep two coops open for use, will they use both? My main coop is not large enough for 20+ chickens, but between them both the coops would work. I would have roost bars and nesting boxes in both as well.

 

[sylviethecochin]

It's hard to say exactly what will happen, but this is my experience with similar situations:

Generally, the older flock will claim the "better" coop, and the young ones will be chased off and sleep in the "lesser" coop. As the young ones get more dominant, they generally decide they want to sleep with the cool girls, and make it so. Eventually, you may have your entire flock, bar two or three victims and loners, sleeping in the "better coop."

 

[Chickenmama1614]

It's hard to say exactly what will happen, but this is my experience with similar situations:

Generally, the older flock will claim the "better" coop, and the young ones will be chased off and sleep in the "lesser" coop. As the young ones get more dominant, they generally decide they want to sleep with the cool girls, and make it so. Eventually, you may have your entire flock, bar two or three victims and loners, sleeping in the "better coop."

Im just afraid they may try to cram into one coop that isnt quite big enough for all of them rather than splitting into two. We will see how it goes! I agree with your theory!

 

[Fishkeeper]

Are you able to make the two coops into one? If you could put them next to each other, you could fasten them like that and cut out the separating walls. It might be shaped kinda funky, but it should work.

 

[aart]

is large enough to hold ten chickens.

What does this mean in feet by feet?