Building an easy chicken coop shouldn't take more then a few hours
depending on the size needed. One good thing about raising poultry is
that they aren't picky about their living and sleeping quarters. The
most important thing to remember while building a chicken coop is that
it needs to be constructed in a way that keeps predators out.
Building an easy chicken coop shouldn't take more then a few hours depending on the size needed. One good thing about raising poultry is that they aren't picky about their living and sleeping quarters. The most important thing to remember while building a chicken coop is that it needs to be constructed in a way that keeps predators out. It is also important that the chickens have a shelter that is dry during a rain storm.
To build an easy chicken coop you will need at least six fence posts made of either wood or metal that are at least eight feet tall. Measure how large you think the chicken coop needs to be, then use a post hole digger to stand one end of the fence posts in, making sure they are buried deep enough to remain sturdy after you have packed the sides with dirt. Tamp the dirt down around the fence posts tightly.
After you have the fence posts placed in the ground in the shape you want your chicken coop to be, cut plywood or sheet metal in the proper sizes to use as walls and attach them with screws or nails to the fence posts. If possible, enclose the pen on three sides, then use poultry wire for the fourth side. This allows your chickens to have access to sun which they love. For the third wall, use poultry fencing with the smallest holes in it. Measure and cut enough of the fence to build a secure wall that is attached to the fence posts.
After you have installed the fence posts and plywood or sheet metal walls you will need to build the roof. It is important to use a sturdy material for the roofing to keep predator out at night, such as owls, and also to allow the poultry to be able to get out of the weather elements. Measure and cut plywood or sheet metal to fit across the top, then connect each piece to the tops of the fence posts. Use enough nails or screws to hold the roof on in a very secure manner.
Add a door to one wall with hinges and put hay, fresh water and food inside. If you have hens you will also want to build nesting boxes for them to lay their eggs in. As stated before, chickens aren't picky about their lodging. As long as they are safe from predators, have shelter from the weather, fresh food and water, and a place to lay in the sunshine, they'll be happy and safe.
