Building the chicken coop - things to consider

At this point, here is what I have to say about chicken coops if you build from scratch:

Give it 4-5 square feet per bird and then add some more because you will get more chickens.
Ventilation ventilation ventilation - without it being drafty.
Make sure the roof extends far enough out so it does not rain in.
If you build from scratch -  use cement blocks 2 feet deep at the bottom and the deep litter method
Make sure your coop is absolutely pretator proof, this includes against weasels and diggers.
For wire, use hardware cloth.
Don't put stuff along the edges of have spaces rodents can hide.
Nest boxes off the floor gives the birds more floor space. slant the roof.
Make the roost higher than the nest boxes.
Make a safe covered outdoor run.
If you plan to do gardening - consider letting the chickens out in section, rotating so plan ahead on where you build.
Shade is good.
Don't use cedar.
Allow for option to partition into a main coop and rooster section with separate exists into separate outdoor areas,  and a broody section if you ever intend to raise your own. If you have young birds, it helps to have another section for them.
Have a way to separate a sick looking bird.

Getting help with building the chicken coop Easter weekend April 2012. And more videos about chickens and gardening here 


 

Chickens at the post office

 Until I got involved with chickens in 2012, I did not know they can be shipped. They do quite well for a day or 2, and even thought there can be losses apparently, mine arrived well. I did pay for express mail thought - for the chicken baby's sake :). Here they are at the post office.
Sandhill Preservation has a detailed list of what types of poultry can be shipped where and how (best to ship)

WOAH - The chickens are at the post office - May 22, 2012 - ready or not, here they come.

Chicks & Weeds getting started video

Here is a link to our first video - showing the land and run down green house which hopefully will house the chickens in a few weeks Chicks and Weeds- getting started