There are many factors to consider when planning a chicken coop. A standard size is 12 square feet, but some coops need more space. Nesting boxes should be at least eight inches deeper. Then, there should be a roosting bar with two sides and one door for access. The coop should have extra bedding and secure storage space for feed and water. Finally, there should be a place for the chickens to dust bathe.
When planning the location of a chicken coop, consider the light, wind, and shade. For example, if you live in a region with hot summers, it would be a good idea to build the coop near a shady tree branch, so that the birds will not have to poop in the nest box during the day. In addition, you should position the nest box higher than the roost, to prevent dirty eggs from laying in the nest box. A good coop layout should have roosts at different heights so that chickens can hop from one to another.
The layout of your chicken coop should be designed to maximize the light and breezes available. Make sure to consider the heat of the sun, as chickens don’t have sweat glands. In hot climates, you should build your coop in a shady area. Likewise, if the weather is colder than your area, build it with a south-facing wall, as this provides protection from wind and rain and minimizes odors.
A chicken coop should have roosts, and the roosts should be about 12 inches from the nearest parallel wall. For a more comfortable roost, you can build ladders for higher roosts. Also, be sure to place nest boxes above the roosts, and don’t place the chickens’ feet directly on top of them. Ideally, the roosts should be about 2 feet above the floor, so they can get up on them easily.
The location of the coop should be convenient for the chickens. It should be protected from wind and rain. The location should have adequate sunlight and shade. The coop should be elevated to avoid unwanted entry from below. The roosts should also be at least three feet above the ground. If the coop is located near a tree, make sure that the roosts are at least three feet off the floor.
The roosts should be at least eight inches high. Natural tree branches are better than 2x4s, but it’s up to you. The roosts should be about two to three feet off the floor. The roosts should be at a height where the chicken can reach the roost and not fall off. In case it is too high, you can provide ladders.