Gridguru
Chirping
I've been a lurker for a while now, and since coop construction is underway, i thought i better log in to get opinions, thoughts, and good advice from the crowd as i go along. I've been doing serious research for months now on this site and others (plus books and advice from friends who are chicken owners), but i have a lot to learn still!
We live on a heavily wooded acre lot (300+ post oaks). It's pretty hilly and rocky, but has nice shade and good spaces for a coop. We also have a beagle (yikes!).
We plan to have 8 chickens (2 each of 4 breeds). Barred Rock, Ameraucana, Buff Orpington, and Copper Moran. Assuming my wife hasn't changed her mind.
Coop will be cool. 6x6 base, raised 18in off the ground. It will have a slant roof, 6'-5" tall (from base) on the high side. I found a big old window that i will install on one wall. I'll be able to open it in the summer, but it should let in a lot of light year round. Nesting boxes (3) will be off a side, accessible from the outside. The back will have a large door that will basically give us access to the whole coop. The run will be pretty large (12 x 18 or so) and tall enough for us to walk in upright. I'll probably incorporate the trees. Lots of critters/predators around, not the least of which being my dog, so the run will be secure.
Looking forward to building it. My wife is REALLY looking forward to the chickens.
We live on a heavily wooded acre lot (300+ post oaks). It's pretty hilly and rocky, but has nice shade and good spaces for a coop. We also have a beagle (yikes!).
We plan to have 8 chickens (2 each of 4 breeds). Barred Rock, Ameraucana, Buff Orpington, and Copper Moran. Assuming my wife hasn't changed her mind.
Coop will be cool. 6x6 base, raised 18in off the ground. It will have a slant roof, 6'-5" tall (from base) on the high side. I found a big old window that i will install on one wall. I'll be able to open it in the summer, but it should let in a lot of light year round. Nesting boxes (3) will be off a side, accessible from the outside. The back will have a large door that will basically give us access to the whole coop. The run will be pretty large (12 x 18 or so) and tall enough for us to walk in upright. I'll probably incorporate the trees. Lots of critters/predators around, not the least of which being my dog, so the run will be secure.
Looking forward to building it. My wife is REALLY looking forward to the chickens.
Im sure you will enjoy them very much, they fare fab to keep!! Lots of fun and very rewarding too. The chicken TV is great as you watch them go about their chicken business. 
) Please feel free to ask any questions you may have. We are here to help in any way we can. Cheers.
