Choosing a Location For Your Chicken Coop
Yard planning can be tough, especially when you have a backyard flock and other living creatures to consider. Where to place your chickens and their coop is a crucial decision in your career as a chicken farmer.
Consider the layout of your yard, what your chickens need, and how your coop placement can make your job easier. To get started, read our guide to choosing a location for your chicken coop.
FOCUS ON ACCESSIBILITY
Many chicken keepers prefer to have their chicken coops close to their homes. This makes it easier for you to keep a coop space and an eye on your birds—both for their safety and your own entertainment.
It also makes your daily chores easier, since you won’t have to hike or haul supplies as far. A closer coop can also help when you’re running electricity or other utilities to the structure.
CONSIDER THE ELEMENTS
You want your chicken coop to be able to withstand any kind of weather. Make sure you have a solid foundation by placing your coop on level ground. Consider the type of weather you get, and plan accordingly.
For example, if you live in an area that gets plenty of rain, place your coop on land that drains well to prevent flooding and other water damage. In the winter, harsh winds can drop the temperature and make the yard and run uncomfortable for your birds.
If winter winds are an issue in your area, place your coop on level ground near a wind break such as trees, bushes, or a solid fence.
USE WHAT YOU HAVE
When choosing a location for your chicken coop, try to make use of the preexisting elements in your yard. Think about the different areas of your yard and how your backyard chickens would prosper within them. Where would they have room to roam? Where would they be safest from predators? A nearby tree can provide shade in the summer. If you have a fence in your yard, you can use it as part of the chicken coop, or run instead of starting completely from scratch. Fences, trees, or other sturdy structures can also serve as natural wind breaks.
Whether you need advice on where to place your coop or the equipment to build it yourself, Stromberg’s Chickens can help you. Check out our wide range of reliable supplies, from fencing and netting tohousing supplies, we have everything you need for a happy flock.
If you’re looking for information, equipment, or a community of fellow serious chicken keepers and farmers, Stromberg’s Chickens is here to help you through every step of your chicken-keeping journey.