Monday, June 14, 2010

Building a Small Backyard Chicken Coop - Things to Consider First

We probably all agree that there is nothing better than farm fresh eggs, not only in the morning but also as a great additional to everyday cooking and baking. With that being said, how far will you travel for your "farm fresh eggs"?

If you are reading this article then you have already given some thought to building a small backyard chicken coop of your very own so that you only have to walk right outside your door. But, like everyone you have a few questions before you jump in feet first. Good thinking! Let's explore some important factors in building a small backyard chicken coop.

Building your own coop can be a very rewarding adventure but let's talk about what to consider before you begin.

1. Ordinances. Check with your city first to make sure there is no ordinance against building a chicken coop in your neighborhood. This is a big one, there is nothing worse then going through the trouble of building a small backyard chicken coop and purchasing chickens only to find out....you can't have them.

2. Space. How much space is needed? How many chickens do you hope to house? How big does the structure have to be? This will be a big factor in your hen house plans. Make sure you consider this before getting your feet wet.

3. Where? Where will you build your chicken coop? Designate a place, consider how far from the house, and if you want a portable chicken coop?

4. Climate. Consider your climate. Are you going to need to insulate your chicken coop for cold nights and/or winter months? Or do you need to keep the coop cool during hot spells?

Now that you have explored some basic thoughts on chicken coop construction, let talk about what kinds of chickens you will be boarding.

5. Breed. What breed of chicken will you raise? Things to consider: what climate you live in; do you want your chickens to rear baby chicks? How often do you want your chickens to lay eggs? Do you prefer a colorful assortment of eggs?

6. Protection. How will you protect your precious egg supply and chickens from predators and/or dogs? No one wants to chase Fido around the yard while he has a chicken in his mouth.

7. Maintenance. How will you clean your chicken coop? A sloped floor a great solution to this problem, making it easy to spray down and clean up fast.

8. Ventilation. How will you ventilate your coop? Air circulation is a must. Not only for the health of the bird, but also for any odors that may come from the coop.

9. Feeding. How will you feed your chickens? You'll need to consider that you need easy access to feed and water your birds. Will this be an outside run? Will an outside run work in your climate?

10. Light. And finally, what is the light source? You will need to see inside your coop and give your chickens some natural light themselves.

Once you have answered the above concerns, you are now you are ready to begin building a small backyard chicken coop! Before you begin, check around your yard and see if there is any recycled material such as left over wood from old construction projects, or wooden pallets that can be used. If you already have an out building such as an old dog house, garage or barn on your property you maybe that much father ahead already (this can be a very money management way to build your coop.)

There you go, now what are you waiting for? Your very own "farm fresh egg" producing chicken coop is just around the corner. Most people are often surprised that chicken coops are very little maintenance and require very little supervision given the right housing. But you have done your homework and are on the right path.

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