The chicken is a fantastic backyard pet to have. A conversation starter, a handy form of pest control, a source of fertilization, and best of all an ongoing source of healthy, tasty eggs! Those thinking about keeping hens should also think carefully about what kind of chicken house they are going to have.
When it comes down to it, looks don’t really matter. The chickens wouldn’t notice the difference if they were housed in a luxury cabin of quality woods or a shack constructed of scrap materials. What they want is a safe, dry place that is dark and quiet. If you can keep out the weather and animals that might eat your hens, the chickens will be pretty happy.
A good house will have easy access to food and water, good ventilation, and some light. Windows with sturdy mesh coverings are a good idea, and should be placed on either side of the hen house to allow cross-ventilation.
You can install doors to make it easier to get in and out for collecting eggs and cleaning, or have a hinged lid. A ramp leading up to the door will make it easier for the hens to get into their house.
The number of chickens you intend to have will decide how big their house should be. Make provision for individual nesting boxes and enough perching spaces to accommodate all of your chickens. There should be enough room for them all to flap and move about.
To keep out the wet you may need to construct your hen house with a concrete base or raise it up on stilts. It is important that no dampness can seep in. Keep the ground covered with a good, thick layer of wood shavings or hay. Chickens will be encouraged to use their nesting boxes if they are kept well-supplied with fresh straw.
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