#Hobby farm tips windows#

#Hobby farm tips windows#

There should be no coop openings that a predator can get through at night, and all windows or vents should be covered with 1⁄ 2-inch hardware cloth (even when open).Ģ6. Many predators consider chickens an excellent meal and will do anything to get them.Ģ5. Making the coop and run predator-proof is essential. Read more: Building a chicken coop? Here are the basics to know about.Ģ4. Warm weather vents can be lower in the coop so they provide a cooling breeze. Cold weather vents should be high up (above roosts) and protected from rain and snow by roof overhangs.Ģ3. In areas where hot weather is not a prob lem, plan 1 square foot of vent opening per 10 square feet of floor space.Ģ2. In hot weather areas, entire sides of the coop can be constructed to be removed to maintain sufficient ventilation.Ģ1. So, create many ventilation options that can be closed or opened as required.Ģ0. The amount and location of vents needed varies as weather conditions change throughout the year. Chicken housing must be well ventilated year-round to remove the large amounts of moisture, ammonia, dust and heat that chickens generate.ġ9. Include a separate area within the coop for storing chicken feed, oyster shell, grit and medicinal items. For smaller coops, incorporate a hinged roof that can be lifted to allow access.ġ7. Include a human-sized access door and room to stand up inside your chicken house.ġ6. In order to clean, water, feed and care for your chickens, easy access and room to work are essential.ġ5. Electricity powers conveniences such as heated waterers, an automatic door-opener and winter “lights-on” for better egg production. Chickens drink lots of water and carrying it gets old fast. Make water and electricity available at the chicken house. Locate the structure downwind from prevailing winds that pass your home to minimize odors and noise.ġ3. Facing the coop south with protection from northerly winds is often ideal in cold weather areas.ġ2. In hot weather regions, this typically means placing the chicken housing in a shaded location.ġ1. Take advantage of available light, breezes and shade to help stabilize temperatures inside the coop and run.ġ0. Locate chicken housing where there’s room for an outside run (sized for at least 10 square feet per chicken).ĩ. A coop located near the house is preferable, especially if you’ll be collecting eggs daily.Ĩ. Some governments may restrict where you can place a chicken coop and run.ħ. Before you build, be sure to check local ordinances.