Building a Coop

There’s a lot to keep in mind. 

1. You want it to be big enough for your flock
1. The minimum rule of thumb is about 2 to 3 square feet per chicken inside the chicken coop, and 8 to 10 square feet per chicken in an outside run. More square footage is better. Skimping on space requirements for a flock of chickens can cause stress, cannibalism, pecking, and sometimes even death. https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/hobby-farming/raising-chickens/how-to-determine-your-flock-size-and-space-requirements/#:~:text=The%20minimum%20rule%20of%20thumb,pecking%2C%20and%20sometimes%20even%20death.
2. You want to make sure there are no holes for predators to sneak into
3. Be careful when it comes to hanging a heat lamp.
1. If it's too close to the hay, it can cause a fire. As good as fried chicken is, this is not the way to do that.
4. Give them perches and nesting boxes.
1. I've read that one nest is good for 3-4 birds. I still think the more boxes to build, the better
5. Waterproof roof
6. Sturdy enough for your environment
7. Allow for plenty of airflow.
1. It's nasty and dusty in those coops. It helps to have a window or 2 to let in some fresh air and create a draft. Just make sure you have some kind of screen in the window to block out predators.
2. Also be sure to have a way to close those spaces tight for cold days.