As part of the growing trend toward locally grown food and self-sufficiency, people living in towns and suburbs are choosing to keep chickens in their backyards. this hobby combines the enjoyment of caring for lively birds with the satisfaction of producing fresh, healthy eggs. If you’ve decided to keep poultry, you may wish purchase one of the many flat-packed chicken coops for sale online. these vary in terms of design, size and materials with some models providing better ventilation and lighting.

The design of the coop can make a big difference to you and your chickens. the hen house should be raised off the ground to prevent damp and to keep rodents at bay. An attached ramp will allow the chickens easy access. A pull-out tray beneath the nesting area facilitates cleaning. A nesting box with a lift-up lid that opens from the outside lets you check for eggs without disturbing your hens.

Websites selling coops will often advise you as to the number of chickens they can house. Beware of overestimates since crowding can lead to many problems. As a rule of thumb, you should allow six square feet of space per chicken. Multiply the length of the coop in feet by the width and divide by six to determine the number of chickens it can comfortably accommodate.

Buy a coop made from the best materials you can afford. Wood should be pre-treated to repel water and resist rot. Panels should be half an inch thick to increase the sturdiness of the structure and allow it to withstand all weather conditions. the sides of the run should consist of galvanized steel mesh to protect the hens from determined predators.

The hen house must be adequately ventilated to allow air to circulate among the nesting birds. this will prevent the build-up of carbon dioxide and ammonia, reduce odors and allow excess moisture to evaporate. Air vents should be located above the nesting area to avoid subjecting the chickens to cold drafts.

Sunlight entering the coop will help to keep it warm and dry and encourage the birds to lay more eggs. at least one window which looks into the nesting area is essential. Glazed or Perspex windows that can be opened in summer for extra ventilation and closed in winter to preserve warmth are ideal.

When comparing the prices of chicken coops for sale, be sure to take the materials and features into account. A well-designed, sturdy coop which will protect your hens from predators and increase their length and quality of life will cost more than a basic model. keep in mind that a compromise on quality at the outset can lead to further expenses in the long run.