A chicken run is an essential part of keeping backyard chickens. It provides them a safe and secure space to move around and forage for food while protecting them from predators. This guide will walk you through how to build a chicken run that will keep your birds happy and healthy.
Materials and Tools
Before you begin building your chicken run, you will need to gather the necessary materials and tools. Includes:
● Chicken wire or hardware cloth
● Posts (wooden or metal)
● Gate hinges and latch
● Screws or nails
● Measuring tape
● Power drill or hammer
● Pliers or wire cutters
Planning and Design
The first step in building a chicken run is to plan and design it. It includes determining the size and shape of the run and deciding on any additional features you may want to include, such as a nesting box or perch.
When deciding on the size of your chicken run, it’s important to remember the number of birds you have and the space they need to move around and forage. Generally, each chicken should have at least 4 square feet of space in the run.
Once you have a general idea of the size and shape of your chicken run, you can start sketching out a rough design. It will help you visualize the layout and make necessary adjustments before you begin building.
Building the Frame
With your design and materials ready, you can begin building your chicken run’s frame. Start by setting the posts in place, ensuring they are level and secure. Next, attach the chicken wire or hardware cloth to the frame, attaching it to the posts with screws or nails.
Make sure to leave a small gap between the bottom of the wire and the ground, to prevent predators from digging under the fence.
Installing the Gate
The final step in building your chicken run is to install the gate. It will provide easy access to the run for cleaning and maintenance. To install the gate, attach the hinges and latch to the posts, ensuring they are level and securely fastened.
In short, building a chicken run is a relatively simple project you can finish at the weekend. With the right materials, tools, and planning, you can create a safe and secure space for your backyard chickens to thrive.
The Benefits of Investing in a Chicken Run
As the demand for locally sourced, organic food continues to grow; many people are turning to backyard chicken farming to produce their eggs and meat. While chickens can be kept in a coop, having a separate run to forage and exercise can greatly enhance their health and overall well-being. Here we will explore the many benefits of investing in a chicken run and how it can benefit you and your feathered friends.
1. Increased Space and Exercise
One of the biggest benefits of a chicken run is that it provides your chickens with more space and the opportunity to exercise. Chickens kept in a coop without a run tend to become bored and inactive, leading to health problems such as obesity and feather picking. A well-designed run allows chickens to roam and forage, which keeps them physically active and provides them with a more stimulating environment.
2. Protection from Predators
Another important benefit of a chicken run is that it protects from predators. While a coop may keep chickens safe at night, a run allows them to be outside during the day, where they are more vulnerable to predators such as foxes, raccoons, and hawks. A properly built run with sturdy fencing and a secure roof can help keep your chickens safe and protect them from potential predators.
3. Improved Egg Production
Chickens that have access to a run tend to be healthier and more productive regarding egg production. The additional space and exercise provided by the run can help boost their overall health and well-being, which can lead to increased egg production. A run with plenty of natural light can also help improve egg production, as chickens require a certain amount of light to lay eggs.
4. Pest Control
Another benefit of a chicken run is that it can help control pests in your garden. Chickens are natural foragers and will happily scratch around in your garden, eating weeds and insects. It can help keep your garden free of pests while providing your chickens with a natural food source.
The long and short is, Investing in a chicken run is a wise decision for any backyard chicken farmer. It not only provides your chickens with more space and the opportunity to exercise but also offers protection from predators and can lead to increased egg production. A chicken run can also serve as a natural pest control for your garden. Overall, a chicken run is a valuable investment that can greatly benefit both you and your feathered friends.
List of Top 5 Chicken Run
1. VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop
With its sturdy and durable construction of high-quality metal materials, the VEVOR large chicken coop is built to last. It features a spacious design with multiple compartments for your chickens to roam and nest. The coop also includes a removable tray for easy cleaning.
This coop is made of insulated, UV-stabilized plastic and is designed to keep chickens warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The heavy-duty galvanized steel is for durability and rust resistance. It measures 71″ x 30″ x 30″, providing ample space for up to 8 chickens. In addition, VEVOR has multiple nesting boxes and roosting bars for chickens to perch.
Lastly, it is easy to assemble with pre-drilled holes and included hardware.
Features & Performance of VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop
Doors: The VEVOR chicken run has a large front door and multiple side doors for easy access. Not only that, these are lockable doors for added security and to keep predators out.
Insulated Roof: Its roof is made of asphalt for waterproofing and insulation. The sloped roof design aids in proper drainage and ventilation. Also, VEVOR has a rainproof and sun-proof design for all-weather use.
Model : SS-YJHJSJL-0002
Material: Iron, Polyester Fabric
Size: 71 30 x 30 in / 180 x 77 x 75.5
Weight: 17.6 lbs / 8 kg
Size: 46.5 x 33.5 in / 118 x 85 cm
Wire Diameter: 0.01 in / 2.5 mm
Wire Gap: 1.4 in / 3.5 cm
Pros
● weather-resistant and can withstand harsh outdoor conditions
● Removable PVC-coated wire mesh
● easy cleaning
2. Pets Imperial Double Savoy Chicken Coop
The Pets Imperial Double Savoy Chicken Coop is a top-of-the-line coop that provides your chickens with the ultimate living space. With its spacious interior and durable construction, this coop is perfect for anyone looking to keep their feathered friends safe and comfortable. This coop is solid wood and features a large run area for chickens to roam.
Features & Performance of Pets Imperial Double Savoy Chicken Coop
Easy to Clean: The coop is designed with easy-to-clean features that make it simple to keep your chickens’ living space hygienic. The coop has a removable sliding tray for the litter and droppings, making it easy to clean. The coop has removable perch and roosting bars, easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
Adequate Ventilation: Multiple vents provide adequate ventilation to keep your chickens healthy and comfortable. The vents are located at the top of the coop, ensuring fresh air is constantly flowing through the coop.
Easy Access: The coop has a hinged door with a lockable latch, allowing easy access to the coop’s inside. The door is large enough to allow you to collect eggs easily and check on your chickens.
Dimensions : 4 ft 9″(W) x 3 ft 3″(D) x 3 ft 1″(H)
Material: Wood, Plastic, Metal
Colour: Yellow
Waterproof roof: Yes (no roof over the run)
Suitable for: Rabbits, ferrets, fowl, duck, guinea pigs, quail
No: of boxes: 3
Capacity: 6-8 medium-sized birds
Nesting areas: 2
Nesting Spaces: 6
Roosting perches: Four
Pros
● Pest-Proof
● Easy to Assemble
● Comfortable for Chickens
● Safe and Secure
3. Modern Chicken Coop – Eglu Go
The Eglu Go is constructed with a sturdy and durable plastic frame designed to withstand the elements and last for years. The coop is also insulated with high-density foam to keep flocks warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
It features multiple levels for chickens to roost and a large run area. Also, Eglu Go comes with a spacious design with a removable divider for separating the coop and run areas.
Features & Performance of Modern Chicken Coop – Eglu Go
Capacity: The Eglu Go can comfortably accommodate up to 4 chickens and 2-3 larger breeds, i.e. Cochins, making it perfect for small flocks or backyard chicken keepers. The coop also has a large run area that allows chickens to exercise and forage for food.
Easy Assembly and Transportation: The Eglu Go is easy to assemble and disassemble, thus perfect for those who need to move the coop frequently. The coop is also lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for those who want to take their chickens on vacation.
Capacity: 4 medium-sized chickens
Material: 100% UV Stabilized Plastic
Run: Double-layer steel weld mesh
Dimensions: 29.1in x 16.1in x 31.9in
Run: 27.5in x 9.4in x 37.8in
Pros
● A built-in ventilation system
● Long-lasting
4. TRIXIE Mobile A-Frame Chicken Coop
The TRIXIE Mobile A-Frame Chicken Coop is a high-quality mobile chicken coop that provides comfortable and safe living space for chickens. This innovative chicken coop is built with high-quality materials and features advanced technology to ensure that your chickens are well-protected and healthy.
It also includes a built-in run that provides your chickens with a secure outdoor area to forage.
The chicken coop is constructed with solid wood and features a spacious design with multiple compartments for your chickens to nest and roost.
Features & Performance of The Trixie Chicken Coop
Mobility: The TRIXIE Mobile A-Frame Chicken Coop is designed to be mobile. The coop has wheels attached to the bottom, making it easy to move around your yard or even take it to different locations. The coop also has a handle attached to the top, making it easy to move by one person.
Easy Maintenance: The TRIXIE Mobile A-Frame Chicken Coop is easy to assemble, and the removable droppings tray and built-in nesting box make it easy to clean and maintain. The coop also features a built-in ventilation system to keep the coop fresh and clean.
Weight:53 pounds
Dimensions:38.5 x 80.25 x 36.25 inches
Capacity: Small (1-4)
Material: Wood
Pros
● Easy-to-clean plastic exterior
● A comfortable and safe living space for chickens
5. The Roost & Root Round-Top Stand-Up Chicken Coop:
The Roost & Root Round-Top Stand-Up Chicken Coop is a premium quality chicken coop designed for small flocks. The coop is designed with a weatherproof roof made of asphalt shingles to keep chickens dry and protected from the elements. The coop also features an automatic door that opens and closes based on the chickens’ natural light cycles and a built-in ventilation and pest control system to keep the coop fresh and clean. The Roost & Root Round-Top Stand-Up Chicken Coop is easy to assemble and disassemble. The Roost & Root Round-Top Stand-Up Chicken Coop is affordable and offers great value for the price. It is perfect for small flocks or backyard chicken keepers.
This coop is made of wood and wire mesh and features a ramp for chickens to access the coop and a fenced run area for chickens to roam.
Features & Performance of The Roost & Root Round-Top Stand-Up Chicken Coop
Weatherproof design: The coop has a roof made of asphalt shingles to keep chickens dry and protected from the elements. The coop also features a rain gutter system to prevent water from bulging on the roof and causing leaks.
Stylish design: The coop has a stylish design that will complement any backyard or garden. The coop is also available in various colours to match your home’s exterior.
Dimensions: 58″W x 66″
Roost Area: 24″ Deep 40 3/4″ Wide 36″ Tall
Weight: 400 lbs
Capacity:8
Feed & Water: 7lbs of feed and 5 gallons of water
Pros
● Affordable price
● Large run area
Summing up, VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop is the best among the listed ones. And it is due to its high-end features. Why not give it a shot? Since it offers enough space, longevity and security to the pets.
Types of Chicken Run
Chicken runs come in various styles and sizes, each with unique features and benefits. Look at the different types of chicken runs available to help you choose the best one for your chickens.
1. Portable Chicken Runs
Portable chicken runs are designed to be easily moved around your backyard or garden. These runs are typically constructed with lightweight materials, such as wire mesh or plastic, and are easy to assemble and disassemble. Portable chicken runs are perfect for those who want to give their chickens access to different areas of their yard or for those who need to move the coop frequently.
2. Enclosed Chicken Runs
Enclosed chicken runs are designed to provide chickens with a safe and secure area to exercise and forage for food. These runs come in wire mesh or plastic and are enclosed on all sides to keep chickens safe from predators and parasites. Enclosed chicken runs are perfect for those who live in areas with a high population of predators or for those who want to keep their chickens safe from other animals.
3. Permanent Chicken Runs
Permanent chicken runs are attached to the coop and cannot be moved. They are typically made of wood or metal and can be a great option for backyard chicken keepers who want to keep their chickens safe and secure. Permanent chicken runs are easy to clean and maintain, and they are a great option for those who want to provide their chickens with a large area to exercise and forage for food
What Should You Look for When Buying a Chicken Run?
Not all chicken runs are created equal, and choosing one suitable for your chickens’ needs is important. Here, we will discuss the important factors to consider when buying a chicken run.
Size and Capacity: The chicken run’s size and capacity are among the most important factors to consider when buying one. The run should be large enough to accommodate all of your chickens, with enough room for them to exercise and forage for food.
Material and Durability: The material and durability of the chicken run are other important factors to consider. The run should be made of sturdy and durable materials that can withstand and last for years.
Security and Pest Control: Security and pest control are crucial regarding chicken runs. The run should be secure enough to protect your chickens from predators and parasites. The run should have a secure door fitted with a lock, and it should be made of sturdy materials that are difficult for predators to chew through.
FAQs about How to Build a Chicken Run
1. What materials is the VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop made of?
The VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop is made of a sturdy and durable metal frame that will last longer.
2. Can the VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop be painted or customized?
The VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop can be painted or customized per the customer’s requirement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have covered how to build a chicken run query for you. About the best chicken coop, VEVOR is the one you might be looking forward to. The VEVOR Large Metal Chicken Coop is a great option for backyard chicken keepers looking for a durable, spacious, and easy-to-maintain chicken run.
