Chicken Coop for Beginners

Have you always wanted backyard chickens? Well now is the best time to start working on that dream, especially with the cost of eggs at the grocery store!

There are pre-made coops available if you don't have the time or skills to build one. Check out this one: Adorable Coop. It is mobile, which allows your chickens to safely free-range.

As much as I would love this in my yard, we decided to build our own off the backside of our barn. 

 The most important tip is to bury the chicken wire into a ditch at least 2 feet deep to keep predators from snacking on your flock. Be sure the area is fully enclosed. We added metal panels to 2/3 of the roof and left chicken wire on the remaining 3rd for sunlight to get in.  Metal roofing is readily available in many colors. We chose this product.

Adding a viewing window was a fun touch! We also ordered an automatic door; this frees us up from the task of letting them out in the morning and locking them in for safety at night. 

Another huge time-saver that is also a healthy option, is this water system. It keeps the water clean and they learn very quickly how to use it!

Lastly, this kit for making a 5 gallon bucket into a feeder is a game changer! Food stays clean, dry and last a long time. 

So hop in the car and visit a local farmer or Tractor Supply to grab some chicks and you will have fresh eggs in a matter of months!  

This is from Kalamazoo...to you!