yourshedsdirect.com Here's a step-by-step guide on how to build a portable chicken coop, suitable for backyard chickens in Australia. This design prioritizes ease of movement and protection from the elements and predators. Opening: Why a Portable Chicken Coop? A portable chicken coop, also known as a chicken tractor, allows you to easily move your chickens to fresh pasture, providing them with a variety of forage, reducing pest buildup in one area, and fertilizing different sections of your yard. This is a practical solution for backyard chicken keeping in Australia, where space might be limited or rotating grazing areas are desired.
Step 1: Planning and Design Before you start building, it's crucial to plan the coop's dimensions and features. Consider the number of chickens you'll house (allow at least 4 square feet per chicken in the coop), the type of terrain in your yard, and the climate. A simple A-frame design with wheels is a good starting point.
Step 2: Materials List Here's a list of materials you'll likely need. Adjust quantities based on your coop's size:
- Treated lumber (for the frame and support): Consider using H4 treated pine for ground contact.
- Chicken wire or hardware cloth (for the enclosure): Hardware cloth is more predator-proof.
- Roofing material (corrugated iron, plastic sheeting, or shade cloth): Choose something durable and weather-resistant.
- Wheels (at least two, preferably with brakes)
- Screws, nails, and staples
- Hinges and latches (for the door)
- Perches (wooden dowels or branches)
- Plywood or OSB (for a small nesting box)
- Optional: Shade cloth for extra sun protection
Step 3: Building the Frame Cut the treated lumber according to your planned dimensions. Construct the A-frame structure, ensuring it's sturdy and square. Use screws for a secure connection. Reinforce the corners with additional lumber pieces if needed.
Step 4: Adding the Wheels Attach the wheels to one end of the A-frame. Consider adding a handle or tow rope to the opposite end for easier movement. Ensure the wheels are securely fastened and can support the coop's weight.
Step 5: Enclosing the Coop Cover the sides and bottom of the frame with chicken wire or hardware cloth. Use staples to securely attach the wire to the lumber. Overlap the edges of the wire to prevent gaps that predators could exploit. Bury the wire a few inches into the ground for added security, or create an outward-facing "skirt" of wire to deter digging predators.
Step 6: Building the Nesting Box Construct a small nesting box from plywood or OSB. A simple box with a hinged lid for easy access is sufficient. Place the nesting box inside the coop, in a sheltered area.
Step 7: Creating a Door Cut an opening in one side of the coop for a door. Build a simple door from lumber and chicken wire. Attach hinges to the door and the frame, and install a secure latch to keep the chickens safe.
Step 8: Adding the Roofing Attach the roofing material to the top of the A-frame. Overlap the roofing to prevent leaks. Ensure the roofing is securely fastened to the frame to withstand wind and rain. Consider adding ventilation to prevent overheating.
Step 9: Installing Perches Install perches inside the coop. Position them at different heights to give the chickens options. Ensure the perches are sturdy and can support the weight of the chickens.
Step 10: Final Touches Inspect the coop for any sharp edges or gaps that could injure the chickens or allow predators access. Add bedding to the coop (straw, wood shavings, or shredded paper). Place a feeder and waterer inside the coop.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Portable Chicken Coop! With a little effort, you can build a practical and portable chicken coop that provides your chickens with a safe and healthy environment. Remember to regularly move the coop to fresh pasture to maximize the benefits of this design. By following these steps and adapting them to your specific needs, you'll have a valuable asset for your backyard chicken keeping endeavors.
Large Portable Chicken Coop
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www.backyardchickens.com Portable Chicken Coop
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