Leslie Massey
Building a chicken coop is a fairly simple project that can be completed within a weekend. It is a low-cost option compared to buying a chicken coop, and with basic construction skills, anyone can build a suitable home for their chickens. The size of the chicken coop will depend on the number of chickens, with RSPCA recommendations stating a minimum floor/run area of 3 m2 for up to six bantams or three large birds. Additional birds will require more space, with an increase in enclosure size of 0.4 m2 for every large bird and 0.3 m2 for smaller birds. Chicken coop plans should include a chook house with galvanised wire mesh to prevent predators from entering. The wire mesh will also protect the chickens from strong claws and teeth and prevent anything from entering the coop.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Size | The size of the chicken coop depends on the number of chickens. The minimum floor/run area recommended by the RSPCA is 3 m2 for up to six bantams or three large birds. For each additional large bird, the enclosure size should increase by 0.4 m2, and for each small bird, it should increase by 0.3 m2. |
| Portability | Chicken coops can be permanent or movable. Movable coops allow for easier relocation and maintenance, while permanent coops offer more structural integrity and sturdiness. |
| Materials | Chicken coops can be made from various materials, such as wood, PVC pipes, wire mesh, concrete, and timber. The materials should be robust, weatherproof, and resistant to predators. |
| Features | The chicken coop should include an outdoor area, a roosting box, a nesting box, and adequate ventilation and sunlight. It may also have additional features like a mini-garden, an aviary, or a ramp. |
| Design | Chicken coops can come in different styles, such as barn-style, lean-to, modern loft, or portable designs. The design should consider functionality, style, and predator control. |
| Building Process | Building a chicken coop can range from a simple weekend woodworking project to a more complex DIY project. It requires basic construction skills and can be made affordable with low-cost materials and plans. |
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What You'll Learn
Chicken coop size
Chicken coop sizing can be tricky, and it's important to have a coop that offers a proper amount of space for the size of your flock. The amount of space your chickens need will depend on the breed and size of your chickens, the number of chickens, and the amount of egg production you are targeting.
As a general rule, you should provide medium-sized chickens with 3 square feet of interior space. You should leave more space for larger chickens and may be able to get away with less space for smaller breeds. For example, a chicken coop for four medium-sized chickens would only need to be 12 square feet on the inside, whereas a flock of eight chickens requires an interior space of at least 24 square feet.
Some sources recommend providing 4 square feet per bird inside the coop, while others suggest 2-4 square feet per bird in the coop and 5-10 square feet in the run. However, it's important to note that chickens only need their coops to roost and lay eggs, as most of their behaviours, such as stretching, flapping, preening, pecking, scratching, foraging, mating, running, and jumping, take place outside. Therefore, some sources recommend providing only 1 square foot of coop space per bird, along with 8 inches of perch space and access to a nest box.
When determining the size of your chicken coop, it's a good idea to err on the side of providing too much space, especially if you plan on getting more chickens in the future. Additionally, consider the outdoor space available to your chickens, as some people prefer to give their chickens enough space to eat grass and scratch for insects.
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Building materials
Building a chicken coop is a fairly simple woodworking project that can be completed over the weekend. You can use free chicken coop plans to guide you through the building process, providing step-by-step instructions, blueprints, material lists, and building instructions.
The materials you will need for building a chicken coop include timber, screws, wire mesh, nails, and chicken wire. You will also require tools such as a nail gun, a drop saw, a staple gun, tin snips, and a hammer.
For the foundation of the chicken coop, you can use concrete, timbers, or wire mesh. These materials will help keep predators out and protect your flock. It is important to ensure that the foundation is sturdy and robust to withstand wear and tear.
If you want to make the project even more affordable, you can opt for upcycling. For example, you can incorporate an already-built doghouse along with fencing to create a chicken coop. This will reduce the amount of building material required and keep costs low.
Additionally, you can decorate your chicken coop with paint or wood stain to match your personal style or even the colour of your house. You can also add a mini-garden on top to grow herbs.
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Nesting boxes
When planning the location of your nesting boxes, consider the number of chickens you intend to keep and the space required for them to nest comfortably. As a general rule, allow for one nesting box for every three to four chickens in your flock. The boxes should be placed in a quiet, private area of the coop, away from high-traffic areas, and positioned at a comfortable height for the chickens to enter and exit easily.
In terms of materials, wood is a popular choice for nesting boxes due to its durability and ease of cleaning. You can use scrap wood or pallets to build the boxes, which will help keep costs down. Each nesting box should be spacious enough for a chicken to fit comfortably, with enough room for bedding material such as straw or wood shavings.
To build the nesting boxes, start by measuring and cutting the wood to size. You can use a nail gun to attach the pieces together, forming the base, sides, and back of the box. Ensure that the boxes are sturdy and secure, with proper ventilation and a cosy atmosphere for the hens. Cut a small entrance for the chickens, and consider adding a ramp for easy access.
Some popular options for nesting boxes in Australia include free-standing, wall-mounted, floor-mounted, and rollaway styles. You can also purchase ready-made nesting boxes from suppliers like Aussie Chook Supplies, offering various features such as rollaway designs and wall-mounted options.
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Predator-proofing
When building a chicken coop, it is important to consider the safety of your chickens. Predators such as foxes, cats, dogs, rodents, snakes, and birds of prey can pose a threat to your chickens and their eggs. Here are some ways to predator-proof your chicken coop:
Use Strong and Galvanized Chicken Wire
Enclose the outdoor area of your chicken coop with strong and galvanized chicken wire. Galvanization prevents rust, ensuring that the wire remains strong and intact. The holes in the chicken wire mesh should be no larger than 11mm x 11mm to prevent small predators from entering. Additionally, bury the wire at least a foot underground to deter burrowing animals like foxes and dogs.
Install a Wire Mesh Floor
Choose a coop with a wire mesh floor to prevent predators from digging their way in. This is especially important if your chicken coop is placed on grass or dirt, as it provides an extra layer of protection against digging predators.
Cover the Chicken Run
Consider covering the chicken run with a solid roof and/or netting. While netting may not keep out all predators, it can effectively prevent birds of prey such as hawks, owls, and eagles from entering from above. Make sure there are no gaps between the fencing and the roof to keep climbing predators at bay.
Secure the Doors with Latches
Install secure doors with two-step latches that open in different ways. This adds an extra layer of protection, as some predators may be able to open one type of latch but not the other. Ensure that the doors are properly closed at night to keep your chickens safe.
Train Your Chickens
Chickens can be trained using treats to return to their coop at any time of day or night. This helps ensure their safety, especially when they are free-ranging or during nighttime when predators are more active.
Keep the Coop Clean
Always clean up any leftover food or treats from the outdoor run or feeders at the end of the day. This will help prevent attracting unwanted predators or pests that could harm your chickens or spread diseases.
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Portable vs permanent
When it comes to building a chicken coop, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to construct a portable or permanent structure. Both options have their own advantages and are suited to different needs, so it's important to consider the benefits of each before getting started.
Portable coops, as the name suggests, are designed to be easily moved around your yard or property. They are typically smaller in size and may be built on wheels or skids, making relocation a more straightforward process. This mobility offers several advantages. For one, it allows you to easily change the environment for your chickens, giving them access to fresh grass and insects while also helping to distribute their fertilizing and foraging impacts more evenly across your land. A portable coop also means you can quickly move your chickens to wherever you need them most, whether that's for pest control in a particular area or to take advantage of shade or sunlight at different times of the year.
In contrast, permanent coops are more substantial structures that are built to last and remain in one place. They often provide more space for your chickens and can be more cost-effective to build, as you won't need to worry about incorporating wheels or other mobility features. Permanent coops can be a good option if you have a large enough space to dedicate to your chickens and don't need the flexibility of being able to move their enclosure. They may also be a better choice if you're looking to keep a close eye on your chickens, as you won't need to worry about them being out of sight in a different part of your yard or property.
Another advantage of a permanent coop is the potential for more intricate designs and features. With a fixed structure, you can incorporate more complex elements such as built-in nesting boxes, perches, and even automated feeding and watering systems. While it is certainly possible to include some of these features in a portable coop, the weight and space constraints of a movable structure may limit your options.
Ultimately, the decision between a portable or permanent chicken coop comes down to your specific needs and circumstances. If you value flexibility and the ability to easily move your chickens around, a portable coop is a great choice. However, if you're looking for a more spacious, feature-rich enclosure and have the space to dedicate to a permanent structure, then a fixed coop may be the better option.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some free chicken coop plans for beginners:
- The Palace: a stylish and functional small chicken coop with a run and a green roof.
- Downeast Thunder Farm: a 4x8 chicken coop with a yard, run, clean outdoor area, and electricity.
- Lean-to chicken coop: a small haven for up to 10 chickens with a cabinet-style door for easy cleaning and a spacious interior.
- Hen's Paradise: a detailed plan with a cut list and instructions to build a safe haven for up to 10 chickens.
Some things to consider when building a chicken coop include:
- The size of your coop will depend on the number of chickens you plan to keep. The RSPCA recommends a minimum floor/run area of 3 m2 for up to six bantams or three large birds.
- Your coop should be well-ventilated and located in a sunny area to provide plenty of fresh air and sunlight for your chickens.
- Decide if you want your chicken coop to be moveable or permanent. Portable coops allow for easier maintenance and relocation, while fixed coops offer more structural integrity and sturdiness.
- Your chicken coop should include predator control measures such as galvanized wire mesh to prevent animals from entering the coop.
The materials and tools you will need to build a chicken coop include:
- Timber or wood for the frame and cladding.
- Chicken wire or galvanized wire mesh to cover the outdoor area and prevent predators from entering.
- Nails or screws to attach the wire mesh and assemble the frame.
- Tools such as a nail gun, drop saw, staple gun, tin snips, and a fixing gun.
- Nesting boxes or roosting boxes for your chickens to lay their eggs.
Some tips for building a chicken coop include:
- Have your timber pre-cut to make the project easier.
- Wrap chicken wire around the door frame and secure it with a staple gun.
- Use a set square to measure an overlap for the boards to keep the coop waterproof.
- Build a ramp for the chickens to access the outdoor area and the roosting box.
- Include a mini-garden on top of the coop to grow herbs or other plants.
