What size should I make my run?

[cicknmama]

I have an 8x8 coop and 16 chickens. I haven't built the run yet because I'm not sure about the size. I'm in Montana and our winters are harsh so they may have some days where they may stay inside. I would love some suggestions. Here is a picture

of my coop and space

 

[fischnchix]

Are they going to free range at all? I am getting ready to build mine also. If it was me I'd do a 10x20 and at least partially covered. Lots of rain here so I need a place for them to stay dry and hopefully keep the inside of the coop clean longer.

 

[Judy]

The formula size for the minimum would be 160 sq ft, or about 13' x 13'. I'd also suggest making part of it snow free, as they wlil be reluctant to walk on much snow, and that is a minimum size coop, which assumes 10 sq ft x 10 sq ft per hen outdoors.

Please read the excellent article that one of our members wrote, which is linked in my signature, on space needs for chickens.

 

[ChickenMammX4]

Ditto on covering the run. My original plan was not to cover the run, when DH drew-up the actual plans to build, he included a roof...so glad we did and haven't even been through a winter yet

We can't free range so our run is larger than minimum (6 chickens, 8' x 16' run). Ability to free range and climate make a big difference. Since you mentioned concern about them having to stay in some days due to weather, I'd double it if possible. Better too big than too small, IMO. I feel better knowing they have a large, covered run they can use all year no matter the weather.

 

[cicknmama]

The formula size for the minimum would be 160 sq ft, or about 13' x 13'.  I'd also suggest making part of it snow free, as they wlil be reluctant to walk on much snow, and  that is a minimum size coop, which assumes 10 sq ft x 10 sq ft per hen outdoors.

Please read the excellent article that one of our members wrote, which is linked in my signature, on space needs for chickens.

Thanks, I will read that article. My girls have a very large fenced yard and free range during good weather. I plan on covering the run for weather protection. Last winter my hens were very reluctant to venture outside their old run while there was snow on the ground and I had some problems with pecking. We decided to build a larger coop and would like a larger run for winter. Thank you for your response.