Why such a small door

[Ragwin Chicks]

We are still working on our coop - it is a playhouse and we were just going to use the door for them to go in and out.
Alot of the coops that we look at have the small doors.
Is there a reason for the smaller door?
Thanks ahead of time for your input.

 

[shelleyd2008]

The small door is for the chickens, I would think it's smaller just so it's easier to cover, and there's not a huge opening during the day, for the wind/rain/snow/whatever to blow inside.

 

[Judy]

If you live in snow country, it would help to keep the coop a bit warmer during the day, yet give them access to outdoors, as well.

Depends on your setup and weather. Many hot weather coops only have 3 sides, and a covered run.

 

[Ragwin Chicks]

We live in Hemet, CA. No snow and the winters only high 20's for a week or so. We live in the desert for it could be 90 during the day and then 55 in the night.
Also wonder in the colder months how much venilation should the chickens have. Have seen plexiglass over the window and a heat lamp. When it is cold how to you keep the coop closed but still give venilation?