What is the best location for a chicken coop?

It’s a good idea to put the coop somewhere where it is partially shaded, and partially in the sun. This means your chickens can beat the heat when it’s getting a bit toasty, as well as bask in the sunlight when they want to catch some rays.

Should a chicken coop be elevated?

Not all chicken coops need to be off the ground, but there are many benefits to having an elevated coop, including the prevention of high moisture in the coop (particularly in areas with run-off or flooding), protection from burrowing predators and rodents, extension of the size of the run, and shelter in the run from …

How far away from house should chicken coop be?

Typically such laws will specify that chickens must be housed some distance from residences, as few as 10 feet or as many as 150 feet. Requirements also vary depending on whether the home in question is that of the chickens’ owner or of a neighbor.

Do chickens need flat ground?

Unlike most wild birds and smaller cage birds, hens sleep with their feet flat. They do not grip the perch but rest their feet solidly on the perch, so 2-4 inches is generally a good size for most chickens. This also helps to prevent frostbitten toes in the coldest days of winter.

Should I put wire on the bottom of my chicken coop?

You should never use chicken wire for a coop floor. Chicken wire is a very weak material. It won’t last long, and it’s much too easy for any predator to rip through and gain entry into your coop.

What do you put in the ground of a chicken pen?

Grass and Vegetation Grass and other types of vegetation are ideal ground covers for movable chicken coops, called chicken tractors or chicken arks. Chickens can forage for insects and worms in the grass. Foraging chickens lay tasty eggs with high nutritional value.

Can chicken coop have dirt floor?

You may also bury metal flashers instead of hardware cloth. Another option is to dig a hole around the perimeter of the coop that is 4-6 inches wide and a foot deep, and pour post hole cement into it. This will also provide a hard barrier to burrowing predators.

How often should you clean out a hen house?

1. Cleaning the chicken house. This is usually a weekly job, although you might need to do it more often. Sometimes a quick mid-week clean is required in warm weather, or in the depths of winter when the chickens are inside more than usual.