Jamie Oliver - Forums / Chicken coop, which design works best?

mincepie · Thu 27 Aug 09 1:19am

I want to buy a chicken coop and run, to house 3/4 hens. I like the raised coop design,mainly as vermin coundn't take up residence underneath, The nest box sits on the side, but will they get too cold in winter?
No option to get one DIY'd , so its a ready made.
If anyone has any experience of the shop bought kits and their robustness please share . The gimicky and expensive eglu is not for me.
Any thoughts?

Beautiful BC · Thu 27 Aug 09 1:36am

I would check out Forsham Cottage Arks:

http://www.forshamcottagearks.com/poult … ousing.htm

We built our raised coop based on the concepts we researched there as well as on Backyard Chickens:

http://www.backyardchickens.com/coopdesigns.html

mincepie · Thu 27 Aug 09 11:31am

Thanks BC, backyardchickens do a fabulous range, I'd love one of those, but sadly .nothing like that to be had here.
At the bottom of the link, "see more like this".......is what i am thinking of.
Has anyone got one?

Beautiful BC · Thu 27 Aug 09 4:34pm

mincepie, Ican't find the spot you're referring to for "see more like this"? There is definitely no way that you, or someone you know can build something for you? Your point about vermin and going with the raised coop is valid. Mice, skunks, raccoons, marmots, and squirrels can all sneak underneath.

As for chickens and cold temps, a lot depends on the specific climate where you live. Ventilation is by far the most important concern, even over temperature.

See:

http://www.backyardchickens.com/web/vie … ENTILATION

and:

http://www.backyardchickens.com/web/vie … mperatures

mincepie · Thu 27 Aug 09 7:09pm

Thanks BC, I've posted a picture on my blogg.
Looked at one this afternoon at a breeders farm, she advised me against, saying its far too flimsy, it leaks and the wood has warped. It is quite cheap when compared to others.They had other very "des res", with hefty price tags.
Looks like I will have to find someone to make me one.
I fear I may have to remorgage to cover costs but at least it will last as long as the hens.
The girls are happy in the converted wendy house but its now seen better days, with winter coming I want to make them comfy.

Beautiful BC · Mon 31 Aug 09 11:36pm

Any further look in your search mincepie? It would be far less expensive if you can fine someone who could build you one. Pre-built coops are very expensive. I also wouldn't rush in and buy something without thoroughly checking it out. You mention that your girls are happy in the "converted wendy house". While I'm not sure what that is exactly (a kid's playhouse?), the most important thing for chickens is good husbandry. If they are safe, dry, draught-free, and with fresh pine shavings.....they will be fine.

mincepie · Wed 02 Sep 09 10:39am

Well I've had a very productive weekend. Raided 2 skips, received donations of marine ply and 3 pallets and promised corrigated roofing.
Enough material for a 20 hen house lol
Holding a BBQ was the best plan. After much alcohol, 3 guys have offered their capentry skills.................oooh I'm soooo happy ( dont get out much)
Costs.....stout wire, screws and a few home bakes!
Just hope sobriety isnt amnesia.

JoyYamDaisy · Wed 02 Sep 09 12:55pm

How exciting! Are you going to let all three work on it together?

mincepie · Wed 02 Sep 09 6:18pm

Yes, if they do turn up. I.ll keep the tinnies locked away till I see plenty of progress lol
Boys, power tools and booze hmm

Beautiful BC · Wed 02 Sep 09 10:20pm

lol lol lol Way to go mincepie!! Keep us posted with the progress thumbsup

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forum: Leftovers

#1 Thu 27 Aug 09 1:19am

mincepie

Chicken coop, which design works best?

#2 Thu 27 Aug 09 1:36am

Beautiful BC

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#3 Thu 27 Aug 09 11:31am

mincepie

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#4 Thu 27 Aug 09 4:34pm

Beautiful BC

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#5 Thu 27 Aug 09 7:09pm

mincepie

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#6 Mon 31 Aug 09 11:36pm

Beautiful BC

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#7 Wed 02 Sep 09 10:39am

mincepie

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#8 Wed 02 Sep 09 12:55pm

JoyYamDaisy

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#9 Wed 02 Sep 09 6:18pm

mincepie

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?

#10 Wed 02 Sep 09 10:20pm

Beautiful BC

Re: Chicken coop, which design works best?