About Chicken coops
Chicken coops usually protect and provide good shelter for the chickens. It is very important for the environment of the chickens to be very clean and not too hot or cold so that the chickens can live and lay eggs. So, the building of the chicken coop should have insulation or ventilation. Other factors that can affect the construction of chicken coop are the number of chicken and what luxuries you would like to incorporate into it.
Purpose
The function of chicken coop is to offer adequate shelter for chickens so that they can have a good place to go and avoid sun, cold, rain, wind and heat. This prevents your chickens from suffering from frost bite or even heat stroke. It as well keeps away predators hence increases their survival chances. Remember that without this structure, the chicken and their eggs can be eaten by the predators.
Types
There are three types: homemade, pre-made as well as repurposed chicken coops. If you construct your own, you can use simple materials like concrete blocks and wood. It is advantageous to have wood flooring in order to prevent rats and snakes from getting into it. Pre-made are usually more costly, but they may be more convenient and studier for you and your chickens. Repurposed ones might be made from several things for example, old dog houses.
Size
Every chicken ought to have a space of not less than four square feet. This will make them comfortable and provide them enough space to move around. On the other hand, egg boxes might be the size of the chicken. A single egg box is sufficient for four or even five chickens. As well, ensure that the door of your chicken coop is big enough so that you can get through it easily. You are supposed to clean the coop regularly to get rid of their droppings as well as replace the hay.
Other Considerations
When you are constructing this chicken structure, there are a number of essential things that you have to incorporate into it. Chicken need water and food every day, therefore. Think about constructing automatic water and food dispensers. This will make sure that the chickens will stay hydrated and well fed. You must have wire netting all around the perimeter of your coop for safety reasons. This will keep out a number of predators like foxes, dogs, cats, coyotes and other birds. As well, you might want heat and electricity in the coop to prevent your chicken from getting frost bite during the winter season.
Benefits
Chicken coops offer secure environment for your chickens, so you do not lose their eggs or even the chickens to predators. When you try to make a living through the sale of eggs or chicken, it is necessary to give them protection. Also, it is convenient for chickens since they will have comfortable room to lay the eggs. When you rear free range chickens is perfect for the chicken as well as the fertilization of the yard. Your chicken will not catch disease from other birds since chicken coops provide a very safe haven.
