The Chickens’ New Coop
We’ve started building the chickens’ new coop. Our flock currently has 5 Barred Rock hens and 1 rooster, but we’re planning to buy Bantam eggs to hatch, along with hatching some of our hens’ eggs. Chicks grow quickly and won’t need the brooder for long before they’re ready to move outside.
Space Requirements
Since each Bantam needs about 2 square feet and full-sized chickens need around 4 square feet, we’ll need more space. We’ve chosen an area large enough for a 9’x16′ covered run and an 8’x8′ coop. The larger chickens will move into the bigger coop, while the Bantams will stay in the original enclosure. Rick and I found free plans for an 8×8 shed, and we’re building it ourselves—though it’s mostly Rick doing the work. The coop will have space for nest boxes and a large roost. Once it’s finished, Rick will cut a hole for the automatic door, and we’ll build the run.
Looking Ahead
Next to the chickens’ new coop, we’ll build a goat barn. We want the chickens to have access to the goat area, but we’ll make sure the goats can’t get into the chicken space. An electric fence will be necessary to protect all our livestock since we’ve spotted bears, bobcats, and coyotes on our trail cams.
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