Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Poultry and Pets => Chicken Chat => Topic started by: andreadon on March 16, 2011, 15:38

Title: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 16, 2011, 15:38
This is a thread for everyone to put pictures of their coop and run in one place.

Please include plans if you made your own!

thanks!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 16, 2011, 15:43
Bothy Pictures:
my old run was built inside an old outbuilding.
the coop was a wooden coop bought (somewhere I've forgotten, it was a long time ago) and it was extended when we went to 6 chickens.

(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_4808.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_4816.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_4812.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_4814.jpg)

thisis the extension that was built in the summer we got the 3 new ones making 6 altogether
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_4799.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_5002u.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_5430.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_5420.jpg)
(that one is the linking window from the old run to the extension)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on March 16, 2011, 16:51
Now that's a serious chicken area :blink:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Foghorn-Leghorn on March 16, 2011, 17:48
Wow!  I bet your chickens would never want to leave, even if presented with the oppertunity.  That is one serious chicken set up  :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ManicMum on March 16, 2011, 21:07
I'm really impressed with how (by accident or design) they have so many levels, bridges, shelves, logs and so on - I'm sure that helps to reduce any boredom-based bullying or bad behaviour.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: GrannieAnnie on March 16, 2011, 21:09
I think its brilliant!  lucky chooks!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: themagicaltoad1 on March 16, 2011, 21:28
Bought the coop cheap (ex display), and built the run around it. Can't show any plans 'cos I did it all in my head, well it's pretty empty most of the time so there was lots of room to work  :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on March 17, 2011, 11:03
That looks fantastic, is the small run where you put food and water?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 17, 2011, 11:30
That's beautiful Toad!
 :)

(unfortunateyl, my run/house isn't where I live anymore :( - It has been adopted by the Gardener on the estate, though, and he is looking forward to getting a few chickens. There are only 2 remaining of the hens we kept in it (like a huge mansion for 2 hens!) and the gardener is lookign after them until their new home is ready... that won't be with me. complicated story, but  they're going to live with my ex in his new house  :wacko: )
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: themagicaltoad1 on March 17, 2011, 11:34
The small bit is like a green house, when it's cold outside they all stand in there to warm up. I just had some poly sheets laying around spare and thought I'd use them up, it's wind proof as well.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 17, 2011, 11:34
DH and I are getting new hens (there was a custody battle - ex got residence!) in a couple of weeks.

We bought this house and run from Woodenart - Mark and Ian from the company came yesterday, and assembled it in fewer than 2 hours.

(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_5747.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_5750.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_5754.jpg)
(http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss26/bothychickens/100_5748.jpg)

Not as impressive as the old setup, but the garden's a lot smaller!
the coop is 3ft x 4ft and the run is 4ft x 12ft3.
and as DH is a postie, they'll have the run of the gardens in the afternoons when he gets home from work!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 17, 2011, 11:35
The small bit is like a green house, when it's cold outside they all stand in there to warm up. I just had some poly sheets laying around spare and thought I'd use them up, it's wind proof as well.

Good plan!
I worry about wind and rain!
 :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: themagicaltoad1 on March 17, 2011, 11:39
Yours looks nice Andrea, I had to make something big enough to stand in as the old joints aren't so good at bending down these days lol.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 17, 2011, 11:57
The old setup was done with that in mind.
unfortunately, this house has neighbours, and a smaller garden, so a stand-up run would have looked a bit overpowering  ::) :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on March 17, 2011, 18:28
The small bit is like a green house, when it's cold outside they all stand in there to warm up. I just had some poly sheets laying around spare and thought I'd use them up, it's wind proof as well.


Ah, good idea :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 19, 2011, 12:01
okay, wehre's everyone else's?

come on, i'm feeling nosy!  :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on March 19, 2011, 12:28
mine coops are all somewhere on other posts, however I have just taken the plunge and ordered a new solway ark (not pretty and not to everybodies taste) but as I hate redmite needs must. I would love a row of 10 eglus but would be way too much money. So when it comes I will post pictures of that - can't post any of a run as I don't have one.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Carrotcake on March 19, 2011, 12:35
Great thread, especially as we need some inspiration for our first coop, which we are aiming to create this summer.

Keep them coming. We've got some really good ideas from you guys already. At this rate, we'll have no excuse for not giving our chickens the best accomodation possible   8)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: GrannieAnnie on March 19, 2011, 13:06
As most of you know, ours is a bit of a mish mash, most of which Brian made out of odds and ends and old freecycle sheds.  Apart from a couple we actually gave some money for!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: GrannieAnnie on March 19, 2011, 13:08
Most of our runs are just 5-6ft chicken wire/stock fencing, but we've never had any trouble with foxes in our nearly 9 years here.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: GrannieAnnie on March 19, 2011, 13:10
Apartfrom the weldmesh panels that Brian made and the silkies now use.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Gerty333 on March 19, 2011, 20:43
Here's our new converted playhouse - called gingerbread cottage because its where hansel and gretal live! it was cheaper and bigger to make this than the tiny all in one they lived in before!! they moved in last night and were so happy gretal laid an egg today (the first since her first egg on pancake day!!)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Lindeggs on March 19, 2011, 21:54
GrannieAnnie, do you keep your Brian in that run all the time, or is he allowed out to free range sometimes?

This is a great thread and I'm really enjoying seeing everyone's coops.  I made mine out of a bus shelter and all sorts of bits and pieces scavenged from around the neighbourhood.  It cost a total of $42 (the price of a large box of beer for the truck driver who delivered the bus shelter!)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: mgf on March 19, 2011, 22:28
Great thread for coop/run ideas. I import grass in the run...

(http://www.ruleworks.co.uk/poultry/images/hens510c.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on March 20, 2011, 12:00
I like your style Lindeggs :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on March 21, 2011, 13:07
Brilliant runs - Grannie's is something to envy!

mgf i love your grass tubs! (i'm goign to steal that idea....)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: uba on March 23, 2011, 15:48
Great thread, especially as we need some inspiration for our first coop, which we are aiming to create this summer.

Keep them coming. We've got some really good ideas from you guys already. At this rate, we'll have no excuse for not giving our chickens the best accomodation possible   8)

Have a look also at the omlet website, there is a section in their forums where people have put pictures of their walk in runs, lots of ideas there carrot.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Carrotcake on March 23, 2011, 20:45
Thanks Uba, just what I need. It'll take weeks to go through that lot  :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: billathome65 on March 26, 2011, 21:07
BEFORE:

(http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g451/billathome65/CIMG0899.jpg)

AFTER:

(http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g451/billathome65/CIMG0982.jpg)

(http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g451/billathome65/CIMG0978.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Junie on March 29, 2011, 08:59
Here are a coulpe of pics of my set up - the coop came with the house, it has two pop holes, one to the outside and one to the pen.  Inside there was one divider so the chooks could not get from one pop hole to the other unless a door was opened for them.  The chickens then has full run of the coop.  So to make things easier OH and I made the internal space so they have a small area, which contains their water and their roost where they cannot get underneath, they have a pop hole to the outside which opens and closes automatically with the light.

Outside is as it was when we bought the house although they now have their nest boxes outside,  made with wood found around the place ( the previous owner used old wine boxes and cut out plastic jerry cans) a covered are with their food too.

Having a ready made chicken house has proved to be a lot of work, and it sems to be on going - the latest problem is that we seem to have a rat or two in the coop at night, so we really need to re do the roof - not a small job!!!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: GrannieAnnie on March 29, 2011, 09:05
GrannieAnnie, do you keep your Brian in that run all the time, or is he allowed out to free range sometimes?

 :lol: :lol: :lol:  Unfortunately Lindeggs, Brian escapes a bit too often!

I like the 'crate of grass' idea too, but the amounts of crates I'd need for up to 300 chickens would cover what grass I do have!!!   :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: 3ps on April 07, 2011, 13:45
I posted this before (been lurking since) but I might as well post it again (as I'm so proud of it!)

It is working out very well.

(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u194/merc3ps/Image057Medium.jpg)

(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u194/merc3ps/Image056Medium.jpg)

Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: helens-hens on April 07, 2011, 13:55
Hi 3ps - your run looks really strong & solid. Out of interest what have you used for the roof? It looks a bit like perspex but I have tried cutting that and it just splinters?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on April 07, 2011, 13:55
Lovely coop and run 3ps
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: 3ps on April 07, 2011, 14:02
Hi,

Thanks for the nice comments.

The roof is made from polycarbonate. I got those big sheets in B&Q and cut them to size. You can cut it easily with a knife or jigsaw and it is a soft plastic so does not split or crack.

I have been using perspex for replacing panes in my greenhouse. You have to score a line many times and then snap, and it doesn't always work... or else place the perspex between two pieces of wood and cut, but quite fiddly.

Here is my build thread: http://chat.allotment-garden.org/index.php?topic=34957.0
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: helens-hens on April 07, 2011, 17:27
Hi 3ps, I may try that as roofing material for the run extension I am trying to finish. I think the polycarbonate is about 1/2 a cm thick with a bit of 'give' in it when you press it (please excuse my non-technical terminology!)?

Thanks for the tip.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: 3ps on April 07, 2011, 21:28
The stuff I used is 1cm thick. It is basically long hollow rectangles.
You can get much thinner stuff aswell, about 3-4mm thick but I don't think it comes in such large sheets.

Those sheets have been up nearly 2 years now and there is no movement or damage to them whatsoever.

Because the plastic is soft you are supposed to use special fixings when you put the screw in but I didn't... I just used coach screws with large washers to spread the load, and didn't tighten them too much.

The other advantage is the size. I only used 4 sheets for the entire roof!

Best of luck with whatever you do.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Junie on April 08, 2011, 06:16
I've just cut perspex for my coldframe lid.  We used a circular saw - sounds brutal but it cut really well.  ( We have one turned upside down in a bench)

Love the coop my the way, it looks very 'grand designs'
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: The Goods on April 13, 2011, 21:11
This is the one I'd like my other half to build, this summer....Cant wait!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on April 13, 2011, 21:24
lovely new run extension you have there Ma  :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: GrannieAnnie on April 13, 2011, 21:27
Chicken heaven some of these coop set ups.

Yours is lovely Ma!!!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Stree on April 17, 2011, 17:55
Well the new chickens are thriving, so been busy getting them new homes outside and out of the temporary accomodation in the pigsty and greenhouse.
The chocolate Orpingtons will have a run of their own so split the run into 2 and built them a house. Built it out of the totally wrong material, but with a little tweaking I think its going to be fine. Time will tell.
The others, various breeds, not sure what , but 3? favarolls and a light sussex amongst them, will be going into the other half of the run with the black Pekin Bantams.
At a later date the larger 2 or 3 of these will have the freedom of outside the run, but only when they have the advantage of some weight and height, because outside the run dwells the dreaded Tallulah.
Tallulah is a white Amberlinlk from Grannie Annie who grew up with Henry and Kellogs, two cockerels of unknown heritage. Tallulah is somewhat toughened by this upbringing and can give more than a  fair account of herself and is keen to exert her authority.
That being the case it would be unfair to let these youngsters into her territory whilst they are so young.
PS. I have built an automatic pop hole on the new house, I just have to pull the string outside the run and it automatically pops up !
By the way, there are some wonderful runs and coops on this thread ! Well done all!

Pictures of mine to follow............
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: farmerGiles on April 28, 2011, 14:38
Thought I'd give the marans a tree to perch on. :)

(http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/5259/tree1h.jpg)


(http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/5201/tree2s.jpg)


(http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/1421/treex.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Lewjam on May 22, 2011, 19:16
this is my stage one run, had to go for a semi perminent cheaper option.

Tree stakes and wire with netting over the top while they are small enough to get taken by a cat!

(http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/1050/imag0115l.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/840/imag0115l.jpg/)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on May 24, 2011, 12:35
A couple of pictures of our new run.  They were taken just over a month ago.  It does not look as tidy now but we are pleased they have left most of the turf alone (apart from their self made dust bath).   :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Davenports on June 01, 2011, 17:49
Our set up which we have had for the past 6 years - changed to a cube due to redmite in the wooden coop.  The shelter is handy to give them shade and shelter.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Davenports on June 01, 2011, 17:52
Our girls also have a larger shelter which is handy to hang their greens on!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 02, 2011, 12:32
Our girls also have a larger shelter which is handy to hang their greens on!

The first image that came into my head was of trampolining chickens!   :wacko:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Lewjam on June 02, 2011, 13:18
Now that would be a sight to see...

Then again that just reminds me of the film chicken run!?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: SMS6 on June 07, 2011, 15:33
Mine is just a small set up but then we can only really cope with 3 chickens and we are beginners.  The coop we bought was advertised as being for 3/4 chickens but we thought it looked quite small when we built it but now we've added the run - which is in fact a puppy pen it seems to work okay and  I think they have quite a nice area

What do you experts think?  We are planning to move it weekly

Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: VickyW on June 12, 2011, 14:12
Here is my coop and run at virtual completion  :D I can't believe how much space they have, the run is 20ft long!!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: terri on June 13, 2011, 06:11
iv the same house as you  :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: VickyW on June 13, 2011, 08:20
iv the same house as you  :D

How are you finding it? I've not cleaned it out yet?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: terri on June 13, 2011, 15:53
iv just got it a few weeks ago to replace a very old one i had and it looks great but my roof dose not come off which made puffing all the d,earth around quite difficult,also getting everywere with the poultry sheild was tricky too ,im loving the pull out drawer though ,never had one on my last one,iv yet to do a monthly scrub but i think ill be modifying it so the roof can be lifted on and off
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: VickyW on June 13, 2011, 16:13
My OH has unscrewed the screws on one side so I can take them out and the roof off to clean, its still secure and he may alter it in the long run but it will help
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Raven81 on June 18, 2011, 18:20
This is mine, it was all home made from a smallish shed, some wood and galvanised aviary wire!!!
The first pic is the inside of the coop - there is a perch but you can't see it in this picture!
The second is the run!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Raven81 on June 18, 2011, 18:23
And this is the hens enjoying the run.
The run looks really small in all these pics but it isn't! Plus they're allowed around the garden as long as they are supervised
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: emmaellis on June 19, 2011, 23:44
My DIY effort is still standing (phew!) although it has only been 5 months since knocking it together!
I initially thought it looked a bit imposing but now the rest of the garden has been transformed from a mud bath the chooks and I both have a something nice to look at. 8)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: mummyhen61 on June 21, 2011, 19:25
Re protection from the wind & rain, we've just bought a strip of corrugated perspex which lies over the run so the Girls can still scratch and do their stuff even when it's raining and windy - and we've got a garden parasol up permanently so they can have shade as well a sun when they're out free ranging (we now burn and suffer the heatstroke!).  The perspex keeps the run really dry and they have th benefit of still getting lots of light into the run, as well as ventilation.  We only use it when the weather's iffy though.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Maccbean on June 27, 2011, 15:36
Thought I'd add my run to the gallery.  It's been built three years now, so not looking quite so new.  I print personalised photo gifts for a living, so decided to print huge panels for the roof (hoping they might be caught on camera on Google Earth).  They looked brill, but unfortunately weren't waterproof so very soon got covered up with a tarpaulin!  

So terrified of foxes getting my girls, we built the run as a box, so nothing could get in.  Hard work building it completely from scratch,  but much cheaper than buying one, and if I say so myself, very well built!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Maccbean on June 27, 2011, 15:37
...and the roof!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on June 27, 2011, 16:41
That looks fantastic Maccbean  :D so, should we try and find you on Google Earth?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Maccbean on June 27, 2011, 16:55
Nah, I'd hoped they took updated photos, but the one they're showing is from 2005.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on June 27, 2011, 20:43
That's quite recent, there are places round here still on 1st Jan 2000  :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: JaK on June 28, 2011, 09:59
Love the roof! what a great idea.  :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: JaK on June 28, 2011, 10:05
Here is our coop and run it's almost ready for when the chicks are big enough move in. It just needs some holes in the coop for ventilation a ladder/ramp and a perch. We are pleased with it as it was built with a lot of reclaimed stuff and things bought in sales (inc roof & mesh). Total build cost £56.32. The chicks also have a mini lawn to trash whitch is more than us humans at the mo  :lol:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v455/Sarcoptic/coupandeggs005.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v455/Sarcoptic/coupandeggs006.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v455/Sarcoptic/coupandeggs007.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on June 28, 2011, 11:17
Very nice JaK and your cats cute too :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: xhappychickx on June 29, 2011, 06:49
Here is ours....
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: xhappychickx on June 29, 2011, 06:53
More pics..
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: xhappychickx on June 29, 2011, 06:54
Not sure if run is big enough? need ideas for treats for chickens ????
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: xhappychickx on June 29, 2011, 06:56
Coop....
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Dominic on July 01, 2011, 08:45
He's a long coat chiuahuah
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on July 01, 2011, 16:46
He's a long coat chiuahuah

Cute  :D bet he's a real personality.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: yorky on July 07, 2011, 20:02
If I have done this correctly then here are some pics of my set up. The run is 24'x6' and the house is 6'x3'

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn181/loiner18/Hens/IMG_0036.jpg)

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn181/loiner18/Hens/IMG_0038.jpg)

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn181/loiner18/Hens/IMG_0042.jpg)

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn181/loiner18/Hens/IMG_0043.jpg)

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn181/loiner18/Hens/IMG_0044.jpg)

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn181/loiner18/Hens/IMG_0045.jpg)

(http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn181/loiner18/Hens/IMG_0048.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: evie2 on July 07, 2011, 22:24
Looks good yorky, I'd never thought of putting paper under the perch  :) a
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: yorky on July 08, 2011, 10:22
Looks good yorky, I'd never thought of putting paper under the perch  :) a

It works well as long as you make sure that the hens can't get on to it, otherwise they just scratch it up.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: OpiumEater on July 13, 2011, 21:09
I have an eglu Go with fox proof run within a compound that hubby is going to roof for me.

(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb328/OpiumEater/P1080016.jpg)

They then get to free range in the vegetable garden when I'm about.

(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb328/OpiumEater/P1080378.jpg)
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb328/OpiumEater/P6300058.jpg)
When they're not too busy looking at themselves.

And sometimes they get to play on the lawn.

(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb328/OpiumEater/P7100158.jpg)
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb328/OpiumEater/P7110161.jpg)

But since the fox attack I'm very nervous and only let them out when I'm in the garden with them  :(
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on July 13, 2011, 21:14
Love to see happy hens.   :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: OpiumEater on July 13, 2011, 21:20
They make me laugh so much, Bernadette is a bit pecked by Alice at the moment so just making her a jacket. Will try to get a picture of her with it on.

She was glorious with all her feathers, but not much of an egg layer. We call her the layers mate. Think she might be older than I was originally told.

(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb328/OpiumEater/IMG_3014.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Ben_H on July 19, 2011, 13:18
View from the small mound of soil at the top end of our run.

21' x 9' run squeezing in all the currently available bit of space in the garden with a Green Frog Designs large chicken lodge for the girls.

I've reused trellis panels for the sides and used off cuts of or reused chicken wire up to 7' to keep my dogs out and (so far) the chickens in without clipping wings though the goldline used the trellis as a ladder on her first night and perched on the top of the wire. I then discovered that the pop hole had closed itself so hoping she was just looking for a safe roosting place.

i've incorporated a hedge within the bounds of the netting to give some shade and somewhere different for the girls to scratch around. They seem to like the hazel leaves for some reason and perch on top of the coop to get to them.

Behind the run in this picture is another area with the compost bin in it. When I have more chicken wire and timber in about a month this will become an extension of another 6' x 17' which will hopefully allow the grass to recover if I can alternate weeks or fortnights of use.

That said, if I can persuade the other half to lose a bit more garden I could bring that new bit out to 9' too, matching the width of the current section.

I'm also going to try and grow chickweed and fat hen for them to snack on. It will be interesting to see how quickly it grows and how long it lasts in the pen.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: OpiumEater on July 20, 2011, 12:20
I love the hedge idea, mine loved to sit under ours, but can only get there when free-ranging.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Ben_H on July 26, 2011, 07:21
The problem with the hedge is that they hide behind it when I'm trying to pick them up for a cuddle (not fully socialised yet). It's also giving me grief when I'm trying to poo clear. I have a number of very itchy hawthorn scratches across my back.  :(

The original idea was to lay the hedge this winter to allow it to thicken at the base however I'm now concerned about them trying to use this as a launch pad to get into my neighbours garden as the fence behind the hedge is only 6 foot rather than the 7 foot elsewhere and The laid hedge would be about 5 foot high midlands bullock style. I could lay it flat cumbria style and not bind it I suppose. At the moment they try to launch themselves from the top of the coop but the hedge is too tall for them to get over and to thick to get into.

Something I wasn't expecting was them eating the Hazel leaves. They seem to love sitting on the roof of the coop and munching away. The good thing is they seem to be keeping the squirrels away from the hazel nuts that have grown for the first time this year.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on July 26, 2011, 12:59
Something I wasn't expecting was them eating the Hazel leaves. They seem to love sitting on the roof of the coop and munching away.. The good thing is they seem to be keeping the squirrels away from the hazel nuts that have grown for the first time this year

I wouldn't count my chickens just yet Ben, think it is too early for them to he harvesting the hazel nuts.  You will know when they are ripe!   :(
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Barnsley-Bill on July 28, 2011, 10:44
This is my run I'm making for my first go at keeping chickens, down on my allotment.

 
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll291/k3-dude/Allotment/IMG_0520.jpg)

 (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll291/k3-dude/Allotment/IMG_0522.jpg)

to the left of my run is a small river and to the right my garden
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on July 28, 2011, 11:27
Hi looking good however just a word to the wise - chicken wire is not fox proof nor is it mink proof - they will both chomp through that without a second thought, (I included mink there as you have mentioned the stream - I have had a couple of mink attacks in the past as I have a beck next to my house). We generally recommend welded wire mesh and I can recommend Hills of Devon for this - they deliver very quickly and at a good price. Also to prevent foxes digging under put your mesh into the ground by at least 8" preferably 12" or have a wire mesh skirt (same dimensions) flat on the ground at right angles to the sides (peg this down to prevent lifting). It would also be a good idea to mesh over the top or use something like clear and coloured onduline which will help keep them safe and stop the run getting waterlogged and muddy in winter  :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Barnsley-Bill on July 29, 2011, 00:18
I have today fitted all the chicken wire and doubled up to 6' and did as you say, set it 12" down from the posts  with 12'' at right angles then filled in with three inch of concrete then topped off with soil packed down.

My sheep dog Jud stays at my allotment and will chase and kill everything that gets in :).
Rabbits, rats, woodiesand all lol.

the only thing I'm worried about is the sparow hawks that vist now and again.
I have a very big barn owl  nesting in a box I made for him up a tree above the chicken coop I'm making, so I covered the roof in chickien wire just to be safe.

I have never seen a fox down there but I'm sure Jud would see them off if he saw one :).   
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on July 29, 2011, 06:58
large fowl breeds are generally too big for sparrow hawks but chicks and the very small breed of bantams may be considered a tasty snack  :(
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Carolf on July 29, 2011, 13:00
As you can (hopefully) see by the pics, the chooks have plenty of space to wander around.

My Westie likes to pretend they are not there but he is not fooling anyone lol
I also have 2 Jack Russells so the fenced off area is not only to keep the chooks in but the dogs out.  They just want to play with the chickens but for now they are kept separate even though the dogs spend most of the day with their noses through the holes in the fence while the chickens look at them with a haughty look  :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: storme37 on July 31, 2011, 19:37
heres our bit of land we keeping chickens on the chickens run free

(http://i461.photobucket.com/albums/qq340/storme37/IMG_1222.jpg)

(http://i461.photobucket.com/albums/qq340/storme37/IMG_1098.jpg)

(http://i461.photobucket.com/albums/qq340/storme37/IMG_1252.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Elcie on August 14, 2011, 22:58
The WIR at the back of my garden:

(http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s346/LisaCrane2008/IMG_0354.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on August 16, 2011, 12:15
It is lovely Elcie.

Ian was very impressed by the hanging flowers on the outside - it's given him ideas  :tongue2:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Ben_H on August 29, 2011, 18:47
Emergency "Fowl" weather alterations.

Four days of heavy rain and showers here turned the chicken run into a muddy, grass free pit. Last night I grabbed some old bits of pallet and trellis and a couple of the bags of woodchip that I was saving for the fruit cage and voila:

Today I went and retrieved my smallest pallet from the allotment to lift the water bowl and food container out of woodchip range after they got completely filled today.

I'm now going to add a partial roof over the woodchip bit.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: feelingbroody on August 29, 2011, 19:02
I just loved looking at all the pics it was like  'through the keyhole' for chooks!!!

My hubby is installing a camera in our run so we can watch them on our iphones when we are at work  :D :D :D

I will put photos on when I can

Broody
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: storme37 on August 30, 2011, 20:51
how will the cam work what softwares required
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: feelingbroody on September 04, 2011, 16:15
how will the cam work what softwares required


My OH tells me you need a DVR (digital video recorder) with at least one CCTV camera connected to it. It needs to be wired into your network so that its connected to your broadband router. you will have to muck about with  various settings such as Dynamic I.P address and port forwarding.
There is lots of information available on various forums regarding ~CCTV.

The app on the Iphone is called MEye and is free to install and it also is available for android phones.

I Cant wait for Chicken cam to be up and running !!!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: storme37 on September 24, 2011, 15:12
we have moved our chickens home for the winter

(http://i461.photobucket.com/albums/qq340/storme37/IMG_1330.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: feelingbroody on October 31, 2011, 14:54
how will the cam work what softwares required


chicken  cam is all up and running with an infared camera I can see what the girls are up to when Im at work or even at home and just want to check on them :nowink: :nowink:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on November 08, 2011, 14:50
ooh, chicken cam!
 8)

you should get it running on the internet, then we can watch too - maybe record it and put the best bits on YouTube  :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: carl on November 12, 2011, 23:11
my new coop and run  :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: carl on November 12, 2011, 23:18
double skin plastic shed from b n q  ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on November 13, 2011, 13:33
Hi Carl, glad to see you back on here (although I know we have the occasional chat on F/B anyway)  :D . When do you get your new girls?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: carl on November 13, 2011, 17:04
not to sure when i am getting them yet...gotta finish the run first and with the dark nites it only leaves the weekends  :( soon i hope  :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: alaj on December 28, 2011, 18:16
Eurghhh! I can't post pictures from my iPad for some reason!
Looking at all these photos is giving us some fab ideas for improvements we can make to ours!  We converted a summerhouse for our bunch,and it has a run we aren't too impressed with but will do us the winter. You've all inspired us though to make it a des-res!  Mind you,they're out more than in :blink:
Thanks all
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on December 28, 2011, 20:34
Glad you're enjoying the website alaj.  I have found it really inspiring over the past year and feel I have learnt loads.  With loads more always to learn!

You probably need to resize your photos, I use PIXresizer which is a free download online.  Good luck and welcome to the website.   :blink:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: OpiumEater on January 17, 2012, 17:53
I host mine on photo bucket and embed a link on the forum, you get really big photos then. You can get photobucket for iPad as well.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: emotion-2003 on February 05, 2012, 09:14
hi
this my hen house and run.thanks for advices and help
cheers:)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: emotion-2003 on February 05, 2012, 09:16
second photo
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: emotion-2003 on February 05, 2012, 09:16
3rd photo
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: emotion-2003 on February 05, 2012, 09:17
4th last photo
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Judd on February 23, 2012, 19:21
Anhbuc asked me to post some pics here so you lot could have a nosey and hopefully give me any tips you may think fit :D
Any help would be appreciated :happy:
Here's 2 from the outside
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Judd on February 23, 2012, 19:23
And 2 more ,1 looking in and 1 looking out.(The chooks eye view :tongue2:)
The shed is approx 9'x10'
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on February 23, 2012, 21:35
Looks good Judd. 

Any spaces big enough for a rat to get in i.e. air gap on roofing would benefit from some weldmesh to keep them out.  Not sure how you would attach it apart from maybe some battons around the walls where there isn't already wood.  Sure other members will give you some sound advice.

A pop hole in the bottom door would be a good idea so that in bad weather they can shelter inside.  A blind or something to cover the window is a good idea so they will settle when you lock them away on light nights.

Some cover for them in the run, an old table is ideal.  Also some shelter from the wind would be good.  A roosting ladder would be good as all the night time poo falls through the gaps.  If you attach to the wall with hinges you can lift it up to clean underneath.  Nest boxes would be good under the window as that will be the darkest place for them to lay in peace.

Make sure there is no cement powder left in the enclosure before you put your hens in.  Will keep an eye on your progress, you are doing a great job.   :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Judd on February 23, 2012, 21:46
Thanks An :D
I intend putting a flap hole in the door I just haven't had time yet. I'll fill in the roof gaps,that should be no problem and put up some kind of blind/shutter on the window.
As you can see the run isn't even up yet but when it is I'll sort out some kind of cover for them in it.
Nest boxes under the window and a roosting ladder, will do :happy:
Thanks for the advice and I'll keep you posted on my progress
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on February 24, 2012, 14:43
If you fill in the roof gaps you will need another form of ventilation for them.

If you are not getting too many hens you could section an area off for storing all the chicken paraphernalia you need.  Including a shelf to keep their feeders and drinkers on a night.   :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Judd on February 24, 2012, 17:12
I've got loads of room for storage An :D

The coop is the one on the far right,this was taken before the buildings were finished though.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: carl on March 03, 2012, 13:37
hi
this my hen house and run.thanks for advices and help
cheers:)
Hi what are you using on the floor of the run?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: emotion-2003 on March 04, 2012, 17:50
hi
this my hen house and run.thanks for advices and help
cheers:)
Hi what are you using on the floor of the run?
hi.
i didnt use any bark..etc
its just soil.thing is i cover with plastic roofing sheet top of the chicken run.so run and hens are always protected from rain.its a bit smelly but every 2 weeks i am digging the groung of run and watering when chickens going to hen house.
hope my message helps :)
cheers
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: carl on March 04, 2012, 18:42
Thanks, couldn't make out what is was, mind u, using a I pod and no glass as lol
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Craig69 on April 03, 2012, 18:29
This is where my girls live - it's about 90 sqfeet
(http://i668.photobucket.com/albums/vv44/Jellyfish69/Chickens/DSCF0011.jpg)

I have a door that lifts out that I put in at night so the girls can come out of the coop when ever they want & are safe on slabs until I go let them out in the morning. It also has a roof over the top of the slabs & will probably cover the rest later.

(http://i668.photobucket.com/albums/vv44/Jellyfish69/Chickens/DSCF0012.jpg)

This picture is inside the run I use as the hospital run & keep open if no one is in there :D
My 2 new girls are keeping out of the way in here at the moment
(http://i668.photobucket.com/albums/vv44/Jellyfish69/Chickens/DSCF0010.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: tosca100 on April 03, 2012, 19:54
Two things strike me looking at the photos of lovely coops and runs. The first is that a lot of them are as big as our whole garden! :ohmy: Feeling our's are a bit hard done by. :(

The other is that the fences on some are quite low. We have nearly seven foot fencing/gate on the drive where they will spend most of their time and six foot around the garden. I must admit when we were looking at requirements the height of fencing needed didn't really seem to come up. Will a six foot fence keep my hybrids in or will we need to clip flight feathers?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on April 03, 2012, 20:06
Two things strike me looking at the photos of lovely coops and runs. The first is that a lot of them are as big as our whole garden! :ohmy: Feeling our's are a bit hard done by. :(

The other is that the fences on some are quite low. We have nearly seven foot fencing/gate on the drive where they will spend most of their time and six foot around the garden. I must admit when we were looking at requirements the height of fencing needed didn't really seem to come up. Will a six foot fence keep my hybrids in or will we need to clip flight feathers?

One of my Black Rocks flew vertically to a branch when I measured it, 7 feet!  :ohmy:  However our fence surrounding the garden is 6 feet maximum and lower in some places and they have never made an attempt to leave the garden. 
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Hedge on April 26, 2012, 21:11
Our split animal house... rabbits on one side chickens on the other
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on April 26, 2012, 21:16
Great setup Hedge.

Welcome to the site. 
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Hedge on April 26, 2012, 21:54
Great setup Hedge.

Welcome to the site. 

Thanks ANHBUC...  Only had the Chickens for a couple of Months but totally hooked already.  My wife has wanted the rabbit mansion for ages and we had thought about chickens combing the two works well and they like to pop in and visit each other at feeding time.  Looking at the other setups has given me plenty of ideas to improve on what we've got. 

Great forum here!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Jomtie on May 08, 2012, 14:57
Our set up is quite straightforward. We bought a coop from fleabay and my OH built the run. He dug down and put slabs in on their side to stop foxes digging underneath and mesh underneath the coop. The first pic shows that and the second shows it finished, complete with plastic corrugated roof. The run is 10' x 8' but the girls still expect to come out into the garden every day for several hours and dig up my borders!!  ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Hen 1-0 Fox on June 14, 2012, 20:06
Doodlehouse Mimi, 8ft by 12ft run, roof watch this space :)\

(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a374/Flipmode69/photo.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 14, 2012, 22:10
Great job.   ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Hen 1-0 Fox on June 14, 2012, 22:20
Great job.   ;)

Thanks in part to your pre build advice!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 14, 2012, 22:23
Great job.   ;)

Thanks in part to your pre build advice!

We are still in the design stage of the roof as we want to get it right first time.  You can't rush these things!   ::) :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Hen 1-0 Fox on June 14, 2012, 22:40
Great job.   ;)

Thanks in part to your pre build advice!

We are still in the design stage of the roof as we want to get it right first time.  You can't rush these things!   ::) :lol:

Ooh... Well if you are generous enough to share your final plans I'll be very interested to take a look, I have about ten different ideas flying around in my head at the moment!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 14, 2012, 22:46
As ours is attached to our garage we will probably be doing the roof sloping from the garage wall.  We will be using coroline sheets and they give some usefull information on the structure/ slope needed here.

www.edecks.co.uk/uploads/manuals/COROLINE%20LORES.pdf

If you need more than 5 sheets B & Q have a discount on them.  We will need to have atleast one clear sheet due to the siting as it would be too dark in the winter.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Hen 1-0 Fox on June 14, 2012, 23:20
I think I need a structure engineer ha ha! I told myself that I would need vertical supports within the run to support the centre of the roof due to the added weight should it snow in winter. Im not sure if I want central supports though, I'm not sure it will snow and now I'm not sure I want a solid roof... I'm going to get no where fast at this rate ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 14, 2012, 23:24
 :lol:  Know exactly where you are coming from.  The problem then is that you end up over engineering. The roofing sheets are quite light and it is just a chicken house after all.

Back to the drawing board!!  ::)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: woodbwoodman on June 19, 2012, 22:53
Here is my setup- this is a series of photos I took during the build.
It started with a 8x6 shed, and I moved the end wall into the middle, making a 6x4 shed for storage and a nice shelter open to the run at the other. A little complicated in that the roof had the triangular gable attached - made moving the wall easy, but then I had to instal an internal triangle to close the gap, and also made attaching the corolux run roof more awkward.
I bought 13x25 aviary mesh from Hills of Devon, 122 wide. I built rectangular frames based on the mesh width, allowing a single 'cell' overlap to ensure no gaps. The framework on the ground was reclaimed joists, which I had bought for raised beds. Since the ground slopes 2 ways, this allowed me to have the frame on a slope, but the frames horizontal. Took a bit of planning but glad I did it.
Roof is partly coroloux - very awkward, definitely needs a knack! The remainder is more mesh framing. I did wonder about vertical supports, but it seems very solid.
I used vinyl on the shed floor - makes the cleanout very easy. Installed a cheap coop for the 3 girls; only problem is that they roost on top of it instead of in it! Maybe they will go in when the weather gets cold. So more vinyl on the coop roof to deal with the overnight 'deposits'.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: woodbwoodman on June 19, 2012, 22:54
next 2 photos...
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: woodbwoodman on June 19, 2012, 22:56
and the last 2
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: henamoured on June 20, 2012, 00:04
Whoo Woodman, that's a very neat job. Your girls are very lucky - and such a lovely setting!

I'm just about to erect an enclosed run in half my girls patch (after Foxy took my girls last month). Can I ask did you screw and glue the wood? And do you think the diagonal reinforcers are strictly necessary? Also would you recommend assembling mesh panels first before putting together - how do you fasten them to the sleepers on the ground?

Many thanks for any advice.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: woodbwoodman on June 22, 2012, 00:08
Just screwed - I used a drill/driver, too many to do by hand! I use screwfix turbo screws - more expensive than normal screws, but in the grand scheme its not a big difference in cost. However, you dont need any pilot holes and they dont split wood.
Simple butt joints all round. Top strut screwed with 1 screw into the end of the uprights. At the bottom, I changed the orientation so I had a wider area to screw into and put 2 screws in each side (could have used bigger wood, but I just bought a lot of the same size). I figured that the weldmesh would pretty much keep the frame straight (it did). The weldmesh was stapled on, 10mm staples using a carpet stapler. Stapled on the outside to make it more foxproof (cant push it in). Note that I dont have a waist-height cross beam on the frame., so I needed to put the mesh on the outside.
I wasnt sure the diagonals were really necessary, but it does make the frame much stronger and doesnt take much effort, so worth doing.
DEFINITELY put the weldmesh on before putting the panels up. I put the panels up one at a time on to the sleepers - take time with the first one with a level etc, and then the others are easy. Use a spare bit of wood (or willing helpers!) to hold the panels in place  until they are all connected together. The beauty of using screws is that you can easily 'tack' bits of wood together to keep everything in place, then remove them later!!
To actually attach the panels I used 4mm (#8) x 100mm screws. You definitely need a drill/driver for that. Using the turboscrews comes into its own here, they just go right in.
Three screws down the length to hold one panel to the next.
NB- the sleepers were 'fastened' to the ground by driving a few posts either side into the ground, then screwing through the posts into the sleepers. They will probably rot eventually, but now the frame is holding it all together.

I have close-up photos which I'll post tomorrow once I reduce them, too big to put in tonight!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: tosca100 on June 22, 2012, 13:08
Lucky chooks, that looks great. :D

And lucky you, having the space to keep them out of the garden! :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: henamoured on June 25, 2012, 20:45
Thanks so much Woodman.

I wondered about the turboscrews and chickened (!) out because of the cost but I think I will take your advice on board as I know they are much easier and for a job this lengthy it's worth it.

Interesting about fastening the sleepers to posts in the ground. I hadn't thought that they would need fastening but of course they do as the ground is the bit probably most vulnerable to fox attack.

Thanks again, really helpful.  :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andy46 on June 25, 2012, 20:51
BEFORE:

(http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g451/billathome65/CIMG0899.jpg)

AFTER:

(http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g451/billathome65/CIMG0982.jpg)

(http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g451/billathome65/CIMG0978.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: woodbwoodman on June 25, 2012, 23:20
Thanks so much Woodman.

I wondered about the turboscrews and chickened (!) out because of the cost but I think I will take your advice on board as I know they are much easier and for a job this lengthy it's worth it.

Interesting about fastening the sleepers to posts in the ground. I hadn't thought that they would need fastening but of course they do as the ground is the bit probably most vulnerable to fox attack.

Thanks again, really helpful.  :)

Glad to help. Actually, the posts were there to keep the sleepers (really reclaimed floor joists) rock steady, so I had a solid surface to screw the panels on to. To foxproof the run (hopefully!) I used more weldmesh in strips attached to the outside of the sleepers. Maybe 75mm vertically to attach it, then about 200mm sticking out along the ground, like a skirt. Didnt look too pretty so I have put some divots of grass on top and these have the advantage of providing a few extra greens for the girls as it grows up and sticks into the run!. The skirt also allowed me to compensate for some lumps and bumps on the ground, and I think the run is now not only fox proof, but rat - and perhaps mouse- proof too. We do have plenty rodents about (despite the cat), but so far no signs of anything getting in.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 26, 2012, 13:39
Thanks so much Woodman.

I wondered about the turboscrews and chickened (!) out because of the cost but I think I will take your advice on board as I know they are much easier and for a job this lengthy it's worth it.

Interesting about fastening the sleepers to posts in the ground. I hadn't thought that they would need fastening but of course they do as the ground is the bit probably most vulnerable to fox attack.

Thanks again, really helpful.  :)

Glad to help. Actually, the posts were there to keep the sleepers (really reclaimed floor joists) rock steady, so I had a solid surface to screw the panels on to. To foxproof the run (hopefully!) I used more weldmesh in strips attached to the outside of the sleepers. Maybe 75mm vertically to attach it, then about 200mm sticking out along the ground, like a skirt. Didnt look too pretty so I have put some divots of grass on top and these have the advantage of providing a few extra greens for the girls as it grows up and sticks into the run!. The skirt also allowed me to compensate for some lumps and bumps on the ground, and I think the run is now not only fox proof, but rat - and perhaps mouse- proof too. We do have plenty rodents about (despite the cat), but so far no signs of anything getting in.

You will be surprised where a mouse can get.  Have had some in ours despite 13mm x 13mm weldmesh.  Saw one squeeze under the frame and a tiny gap to the paving.   :ohmy:  Our big girls can catch them easily but I don't think the Bantam chicks have got the hang of it yet.   :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 26, 2012, 13:40
Nice job andy46 and welcome to the site.   :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Taylor40 on July 05, 2012, 21:16
Brilliant thread this.. Some great ideas and inspired me to go make some improvements to our run... Will take some pics and post soon...
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Carolf on July 06, 2012, 21:22
As we got more chooks we decided to get more coops and give the chooks more space to free range (ok that's most of the garden gone but what the heck  :unsure:  )  The 2 fat ladies have the left hand side coop of the double coop and run setup, and the little Terrorists still have their original coop which you can just see on the right hand side.  The 2 new Pepperpots will, after their quarantine, be getting the right hand coop.  Which leaves me with my original coop at the front of the house (yet more garden gone) so I think that will be used as a 'sick bay' or maybe, just maybe, more chooks   :blink:  (hopefully no chooks will need it for a sickness)
No one told me when I first got chickens just how addictive it is  ::)   

First prize(in a few years when the 'El Cheapo' coops have given up the ghost) would be to get one HUGE coop to house the lot of them  :tongue2:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: JaK on July 07, 2012, 20:00
As we got more chooks we decided to get more coops and give the chooks more space to free range (ok that's most of the garden gone but what the heck  :unsure:  )  The 2 fat ladies have the left hand side coop of the double coop and run setup, and the little Terrorists still have their original coop which you can just see on the right hand side.  The 2 new Pepperpots will, after their quarantine, be getting the right hand coop.  Which leaves me with my original coop at the front of the house (yet more garden gone) so I think that will be used as a 'sick bay' or maybe, just maybe, more chooks   :blink:  (hopefully no chooks will need it for a sickness)
No one told me when I first got chickens just how addictive it is  ::)   

First prize(in a few years when the 'El Cheapo' coops have given up the ghost) would be to get one HUGE coop to house the lot of them  :tongue2:

Don't buy anymore chooks, just wait until one goes broody and she will hatch you some in the sick bay coop.  ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Carolf on July 07, 2012, 22:23


Don't buy anymore chooks, just wait until one goes broody and she will hatch you some in the sick bay coop.  ;)

I love the idea of hatching my own but the thought of getting a load of cockerels has put me off  :(   The little terrorists had an egg that they sat on for over 3 weeks but it didn't hatch although there was a chick inside (obviously wasn't meant to be).  Boris likes to have his wicked way with all the ladies so I whisk the eggs away pronto just in case  :tongue2:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: grinling on July 20, 2012, 22:00
Here are some pics of Wendy's set up. She is a lady on an allotment I was on. She had 20 + chooks some years back and the numbers dwindled to 9. Recently people broke in and stole her big white orpington which was all fluff and at 8 years old was no longer a layer. She has added a mixture to hers now.
Inside the polytunnel structure are hen houses and perches and nest boxes with loads of floor space.
She is the most amazing digger and has cleared another full size plot ready for renting. She is over 60 and willing to help others.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: stickmeup on August 28, 2012, 08:58
Quite limited to the space we have, but it started off with this

(http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/s720x720/183774_10150865629187325_984845834_n.jpg)

and then quickly progressed to this within 24 hours, once they've settled in they will have free range of the garden aswell

(http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/293472_10150873306492325_1792909143_n.jpg)

(http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/s720x720/523560_10150873302007325_1067649456_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: tosca100 on August 28, 2012, 11:58
We have the same coop. Our's had the drive as well till they were wormed, then the garden. A constant round of poo picking now, trying to get it before the dogs (they all get on really well!) We only have three though, that is enough poop for our little garden. :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Derek.laurence on September 13, 2012, 21:17
Andreadon,

your seventh pic down (4 chicks on the shelf), what are the breeds?
The wildlife centre i got my chickens from couldnt tell me what they were.  Am I right in saying thats a Blackrock? whats the Brown hen (head in cup) next to it called?  This would satisfy my curiosity greatly.  Many thanks.

Nice set-up btw :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: fraggle69 on September 28, 2012, 16:05
oZZ_9sx63xs  maded this :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Hen 1-0 Fox on September 28, 2012, 16:54
Love the video... Always nice to get a real perspective on how others are doing it. I was really interested in the greenhouse conversion when I started but just couldn't source one cheaply enough.... Glad tour girls are happy!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Arthur_two_sheds_Jackson on November 19, 2012, 09:18
Its doubles up with the Rabbits but im quite chuffed with the end result, Just got to decide if we're going to put a roof on or not

(http://imageshack.us/a/img525/1339/1001155s.jpg)
(http://imageshack.us/a/img837/5038/1001147p.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on November 19, 2012, 10:03
Great job, must have been difficult to get it level inbetween the trees.

I would recommend a roof but we do have a really wet climate here. 
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: CAL on January 02, 2013, 13:21
Finally got around to moving the chooks to their own part of the garden and improving my shed.  The fence is purposefully low as we don't let the chooks free range unless we are around to keep an eye out and although they have tried a few times they can't fly over the fence.

Hopefully this will keep the rest of the garden a bit cleaner as we've had a new addition to the family who will be crawling out there in the spring..
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: HarrysMum on May 06, 2013, 08:59
From this...

(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/HarrysGal_2006/image-6.jpg) (http://s79.photobucket.com/user/HarrysGal_2006/media/image-6.jpg.html)

To this...

(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/HarrysGal_2006/image-9.jpg) (http://s79.photobucket.com/user/HarrysGal_2006/media/image-9.jpg.html)

(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/HarrysGal_2006/image-8.jpg) (http://s79.photobucket.com/user/HarrysGal_2006/media/image-8.jpg.html)

This is not quite complete yet, we still have another panel to go in around the fence, awaiting a gate insertion  :lol:

It also needs a through clean and a couple of old rat holes patching up and I want to seal around all the edges of the felt (I know not ideal but it's on there) to try to help alleviate mite problems ..... I also want to find some logs n stuff for the run ..... I have until the 19th of may to have it up and running :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on May 06, 2013, 14:17
Looking good.  I managed to get some used coroline/onduline sheets cheaply off Gumtree and hubby has just roofed and old shed we picked up of freecycle with some of them.   :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on May 09, 2013, 10:56
rats will get into the run very easily through the joining sections of your fencing  :(
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: tosca100 on June 21, 2013, 16:12
We were lucky to get a ready made chook house and run with the house. The house is very secure with a timber lined concrete ceiling, rendered walls and metal door. The area they tend to hole up in the hottest part of the day is open and airy but sheltered by a walnut tree, and there is also a pear tree in the run. The wire needs replacing at some point, but we have given them an electric, movable run where lots of crickets and other bugs keep them amused, though they have eaten most of the foliage. A huge amount of enormous edible snails reside here too, but if you tread on one you turn your ankle, they are that firm. You do see the chooks attacking the empty shells though. We have pine martens here so they can't go out too early. Dave saw on when we first arrived in the walnut tree and also three houses down when he took the dogs out. They have solar fairy lights which encourage them in at night for the same reason.
(http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv100/tosca100-dog/chookhouseandgardenveg002_zpsbd5f06ca.jpg) (http://s673.photobucket.com/user/tosca100-dog/media/chookhouseandgardenveg002_zpsbd5f06ca.jpg.html)

(http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv100/tosca100-dog/chookhouseandgardenveg003_zps3468eda3.jpg) (http://s673.photobucket.com/user/tosca100-dog/media/chookhouseandgardenveg003_zps3468eda3.jpg.html)

(http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv100/tosca100-dog/chookhouseandgardenveg004_zps3e5e2d9b.jpg) (http://s673.photobucket.com/user/tosca100-dog/media/chookhouseandgardenveg004_zps3e5e2d9b.jpg.html)

(http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv100/tosca100-dog/chookhouseandgardenveg006_zps674518bd.jpg) (http://s673.photobucket.com/user/tosca100-dog/media/chookhouseandgardenveg006_zps674518bd.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on June 21, 2013, 16:17
Lucky chooks.   ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on June 25, 2013, 12:53
so pleased you are settled and have chickens again  :) x
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: tosca100 on June 25, 2013, 14:25
so pleased you are settled and have chickens again  :) x

Thanks Joyful. The chooks have grown up a bit since theses photos and a sibling, still with the breeder, has laid her first egg. So hoping their des res will help our's along a bit.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 04, 2013, 07:39
Hi all,

Here's a couple of pics of my little fathers day project.

After (for the second time) losing my little brood a couple of years ago to fox, I have attempted to make my garden less inviting to Mr Reynard with a 2m high fence all around, a more secure coop and some other measures.

I used this excellent basic coop design from a site called "BarnGeek" here:-

http://www.barngeek.com/free-chicken-coop-plans.html (http://www.barngeek.com/free-chicken-coop-plans.html)

I am modifying to suit my needs and budget. The main difference being mine will be a single, low angle pitch, corrugated Onduline roof. Also the timber I'm using will be less substantial (3" x 2" and 4" x 1" for the frame and sidings and good 1/2" exterior ply for the boxes) I also added a drop door and have made the rear easily removable for spring-cleaning.

The frame and floor will be totally creosoted. I had some probs with mites last time around and am hoping that doing this I can avoid the little *.

The overall dimensions of the coop are 6' (l) x 6' (w) x 4' (h)  The footprint of the coop interior will be about 202ft. I'm planning on buying 4 birds (perhaps 5) to live here. There's a fairly large, grassed area around the coop where they will have a free run during the day.

I like this design. It looks solid, traditional and practical. There will be 4 good-sizes nestboxes and the other side box will serve as a storage area for feed etc.

I used the brilliant (Free!) Google SketchUp to plan my coop. Here is (what I hope) my finished coop will look like:-


(http://imageshack.us/a/img163/4102/3kst.jpg)


And here's the beginnings of the project in-situ


(http://imageshack.us/a/img809/579/i69y.jpg)

Anyway, the Welsh weather's holding me up ATM but I will be updating as I go on here.

I just wait to get my new girls in and frying up some proper eggs again :=]

CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Prod on July 04, 2013, 10:01
When I first started keeping chickens last year I made the mistake that a lot of people do, I think, and went overboard, paying nearly £300 for a coop etc.  Now I have increased my flock and also breed call ducks I realise that it can be done just as well for a lot less. I am fortunate that whilst we were extending our cottage I spent a lot with a local builder and got to know them. They now keep pallets for me  but specifically a type that are newer and better wood. They also give me the battons that comes with certain concrete materials to separate them plus any old off cuts. Some of the wood is a meter long and has a groove cut in it , ideal for pop hole doors.   Anyway  I have posted some pics of the latest coop I have built, plus the enclosure.  All the wood was free so all I had to buy was a few nails & screws, which I would use anyway, a couple of pairs of hinges and the mesh wire (which I got cheap as it is slight seconds)  I reackon I have saved a fortune!!!!!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 04, 2013, 21:59
Progress!

The rain finally stopped here a few hours ago and I managed to get a little bit more done. Creosoted all that needs it and finished the main frame. The floor is all ready to be cut and fixed tomorrow, with the promise of a good sunny weekend coming up I'm hoping to finish in a few days. WHOOPEE!

Then I'll wait about 10 days or so for the creosote to cure safely and I will be settling in my little harem :-]

Here's a pic of my project ready for the floor:=]

(http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/556/75gg.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/75gg.jpg/)


Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on July 04, 2013, 22:30
Progress!

The rain finally stopped here a few hours ago and I managed to get a little bit more done. Creosoted all that needs it and finished the main frame. The floor is all ready to be cut and fixed tomorrow, with the promise of a good sunny weekend coming up I'm hoping to finish in a few days. WHOOPEE!

Then I'll wait about 10 days or so for the creosote to cure safely and I will be settling in my little harem :-]

Here's a pic of my project ready for the floor:=]

(http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/556/75gg.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/75gg.jpg/)

Did you mean creocote as you need a licence to use creosote and I believe that you are only supposed to use it on wood that has already been treated with it.  It is not suitable to be used near chickens.   ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 04, 2013, 22:57
Did you mean creocote as you need a licence to use creosote and I believe that you are only supposed to use it on wood that has already been treated with it.  It is not suitable to be used near chickens.   ;)


Creocote yeah that's it..........

CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 05, 2013, 22:23
Floor finished! And completed all the roof purlins. Will be tackling the side boxes tomorrow, let's hope the weather holds..............

No more smelly creocote. Will be using a good Cuprinol or Ronseal preserver on the ply and sidings to match the fence.



(http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/8418/wpvx.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/706/wpvx.jpg/)

CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: GrannieAnnie on July 05, 2013, 22:25
Be careful of all the places that red mite can hide CdT!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: BobE on July 05, 2013, 22:26
Looking good
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 05, 2013, 22:47
Be careful of all the places that red mite can hide CdT!

Yeah tell me about it.

I had a few probs with them the last time out before Mr Reynard enjoyed a banquet a couple of years ago.

I have liberally applied creocote over the frame, floor and roof joists. I'm hoping this might deter the little boogers. The siding and ply boxes will be butted up against these.

Only time will tell OC.

CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 05, 2013, 22:48
Looking good

TY Bob :=]

CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: BobE on July 05, 2013, 22:50
Is it worth using brown silicone to seal all the joints.  To reduce any gaps.  Would only cost a fiver.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 05, 2013, 23:18
Is it worth using brown silicone to seal all the joints.  To reduce any gaps.  Would only cost a fiver.


I have thought about sealant Bob. But hopefully  there will be no real gaps to worry about. Also the girls might have great fun pecking at any sealant that come loose after time.


CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on July 05, 2013, 23:18
Probably not as the hens will merrily peck at it and won't be able to digest it.   ;)

You can use a diatom slurry to paint the inside which most members find helps prevent the dreaded mites. 
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 12, 2013, 09:48
I've been held up a little this week, but managed to finish the rear boxes and perches. Hoping to complete my little poultry palace in a day or two :=]

(http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/855/yxav.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/yxav.jpg/)


CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: BobE on July 12, 2013, 09:51
Looks lovely.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 12, 2013, 22:10
Looks lovely.

TY Bob :=]

Hoping to finish by Sunday. I fitted the front and door today and have the sidings and roof then remaining to be done. A few fiddly bits (pophole, dropdoor, a bolt or two and one or two more coats of preserver)

I have spoken to someone in Pembrey, Pembs who seems to offer a good choice of POL chickens I'll probably drive up there in the week.

Here's the latest pic.

(http://imageshack.us/a/img198/608/m5u1.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Sparkyrog on July 12, 2013, 22:19
I don't wish to be picky (we all know photos can distort things ) but the entrances to the nest box on the left look far to narrow ,and the back of the boxes to shallow . however it's a nice construction job  :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 12, 2013, 22:48
I don't wish to be picky (we all know photos can distort things ) but the entrances to the nest box on the left look far to narrow ,and the back of the boxes to shallow . however it's a nice construction job  :)


Those are feeding slots I will be putting layers mash etc in half the box that side. The other half will be for storage.

The nestboxes (4) are on the right side under the lid. You may be right about the angle of the boxes though, I was worried I cut them a little steep. I wanted to discourage the birds from perching there. But I think there'll be plenty of room.

When I've finished I'll post a pic or two of the complete set-up :=]

CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on July 13, 2013, 09:43
They don't need access to food from the coop c-d-t and it can also encourage vermin in the coop.   ;)

For the doorway/pop hole if you are doing a rise and fall you can use something like shiplap boards as they already have a groove in (not the tongue and groove ones).  We used some on our walk in run as we had some left over lengths from making the panels.  :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 14, 2013, 20:47
Almost There!

Just have to knock up a bridge and a few more licks of preserver for the ladies and we're ready for action :=]

Here' s a pic of the nearly finished article and also an image showing the rear door setup......

(http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/3913/85b2.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/694/85b2.jpg/)


(http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/8204/guzb.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/600/guzb.jpg/)

Can't wait until the weekend and settling in the new little flock.

CdT

Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: ANHBUC on July 14, 2013, 22:03
It is looking really good, you have done a great job.  Not long now for you to wait for your hens.

If the coop is not in a secure run I would suggest that you use different catches for the nest box as Mr Fox will easily unhook them.   ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 28, 2013, 13:43
It is looking really good, you have done a great job.  Not long now for you to wait for your hens.

If the coop is not in a secure run I would suggest that you use different catches for the nest box as Mr Fox will easily unhook them.   ;)

No worries about those hooks there are 2 on each lid and they are jammed tight :=]

Got my girls settling in at last! Bought 6 the day before yesterday from Graham at Ottaways just up the M4 HERE (http://"http://www.ottawaysonline.co.uk/#") Really pleasant bloke to deal with managed to haggle a good price for the birds (£70) Two are just starting to lay and I've  already had a few little gifts. One, a lovely sky blue egg from the Legbar, went down great with some bacon and sausage yesterday.

I can't recall exactly what breed all are but I know 2 are Morans, 1 Warren and 1 Legbar. See pic below. The Legbar is top left. One of the Morans is out of shot. I think the chicken top right is a Black Rock, I can't remember. I'm not sure what the silver/grey type near the black one is though.

I had to clip the Legbar yesterday as she hopped the dividing fence easily, I will probably clip all of them today, better safe than sorry.

Anyway guys, thanks for all the pointers  +  heads up  n stuff, I'm most grateful.....I will be hanging about here though, this forum is good fun and breaks up the monotony sometimes CHEERS!




(http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/5341/lna7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/692/lna7.jpg/)


 
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on July 28, 2013, 17:34
the silvery grey one looks like a bluebelle, very pretty and good layers.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: tosca100 on July 29, 2013, 03:17
And the black one with silver feathers on it's neck (top of pic) a silver sussex. :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on July 29, 2013, 10:29
the silvery grey one looks like a bluebelle, very pretty and good layers.

And the black one with silver feathers on it's neck (top of pic) a silver sussex. :)

Thanks guys!

I'm going to have a little "fun" in the Swansea drizzle later catching and clipping the rest of the birds.....

CdT

Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: rufty on October 09, 2013, 13:14
I posted these elsewhere but thought i should add them to the main collection.
Let's hope this works.
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3775/9546149098_c6e157ab60_c.jpg)
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7366/9543358549_ed16fb4c5f_c.jpg)
Later moved it to the grassy area while the veg patch sleeps for winter
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2812/10168612116_8970344aa3_c.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: rufty on October 09, 2013, 16:08
Just finished reading through this thread and looking at everyone else's accommodation. I'm glad the chickens don't have laptops otherwise they'd be very jealous of everyone else's setup on here. You've got me wanting to build climbing frames and extend their run size and all sorts of ideas abotu how to fuss over them.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: carl on November 02, 2013, 14:38
Just converted my goat shed to a chicken coop
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on November 03, 2013, 15:49
looking good Carl x
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: carl on November 04, 2013, 18:00
Thanks joyfull
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: brookieme on March 20, 2014, 20:59
Heres my hen coop and run. Just finished yesterday and chickens now in and settling down.
Went a bit mad with design. Bit of Kirsty Allsop in me  :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: snow white on March 21, 2014, 13:10
Love the flowers!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: barley on March 21, 2014, 13:29
that's very pretty sue - lucky chooks
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: coop-de-tat on March 22, 2014, 21:53
Heres my hen coop and run. Just finished yesterday and chickens now in and settling down.
Went a bit mad with design. Bit of Kirsty Allsop in me  :D

Élégant poulailler!

CdT
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: brookieme on March 23, 2014, 08:09
Heres my hen coop and run. Just finished yesterday and chickens now in and settling down.
Went a bit mad with design. Bit of Kirsty Allsop in me  :D

Élégant poulailler!

CdT
merci avoir une bonne journée
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: grinling on May 23, 2014, 15:54
Redid the coop as moving sheds around. concrete base due to mole!!!
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: barley on May 23, 2014, 15:59
wow grinling - that's good enough to live in yourself !!! let alone chooks  ;)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: grinling on May 23, 2014, 16:04
had a potting shed, which is dismantled and moving to where the other shed was.
chooks still come out when raining though!!. has a dust bath as well as a raised house, so can be hosed down.
they free ranged for a month with no enclosure, but no sign of fox around here, but normally out in the garden, unless it is school hols.
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: richard88 on May 29, 2014, 03:09
We use a cam in our coop and one in our run.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/24/4ynyhype.jpg)

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/24/y8ybadut.jpg)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Willow_Warren on June 13, 2014, 18:04
Brilliant, and I love the cams set up!

Hannah :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andy46 on July 12, 2014, 12:04
like the cam idea but where are the girls lol ??
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Beekissed on January 12, 2015, 10:45
Am loving all the cute coops and beautiful birds on this thread!!  So many different designs and sizes...love it! 

 Now comes the hillbilly US coop I built for $200 and recently tweaked with scraps of lumber, some of which were 50 yrs old or more.  Mine is a cattle panel hoop coop that started out pretty open air but this summer I built in the ends and added an extra hoop, then added a dog house on the back of it as well for my faithful chicken dog, Jake. 

When I first built it, it looked like this and was big enough to house 20 chickens comfortably, had two nest boxes and two long roosts, one pop door.

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/4/46/900x900px-LL-469ee0c8_100_1054.jpeg)

Nest boxes were outside access and made from plastic totes, scrap tongue in groove lumber....

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/1/19/900x900px-LL-19b958f9_5_coop_wings_4_rear_view_all_doors_open.jpeg)

After last winter's bitter cold subzero temps and finding my coop too dark, too dank and not big enough for my liking when birds were confined to it in deep snows, I decided to do a big coop tweak this summer and change things.  I added another hoop on the back, placed the next boxes in the front, roosts way in the back, added a clear tarp for winter and will replace with a shadier tarp for summer, I LOVE the changes.  I left more ventilation open during the cold temps this year but still find my coop warm, dry and sunny, which was the desired result in the designs that I built in.  Also added Jake an attached, well insulated dog house with a stoop on it that covers the winter pop door entrance so they have dry footing coming in and out and so does he. 

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/6/61/900x900px-LL-615b8094_100_2357.jpeg)

The clear tarp made for a sunny coop...wish I had thought of that sooner!

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/4/42/900x900px-LL-42dbbd05_100_2398.jpeg)

The new roosts are easily detachable and I can reach any bird on any roost by standing in the middle, which I love.  The roosting area has three large windows that can be opened up in summer for cross breezes and the tarp flaps lift on the sides still to allow airflow throughout the rest of the coop as well.

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/6/6c/900x900px-LL-6c7982e4_100_2331.jpeg)

The front has outside access doors to the nests, drop down windows over those to let in more air, and...I love this part...feed sack rain flaps to keep the rain from blowing into the side crack of the access doors.   :lol:

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/1/1e/900x900px-LL-1efaf216_100_2345.jpeg)

I left intentional cracks at all levels in the coop for extra passive air flow and I'm liking how that turned out this winter.

I have wooden feed troughs I built out of scrap lumber in the classic "V" shape of traditional hog troughs, as I feed a wet feed ration of fermented layer mash.  In the warm months the chooks drink out of a communal water tub along with the dog but in winter he has his own heated dog bucket and they have a heated dog bowl raised up out of the litter...currently on a step stool but I'm going to build a drop down/stow away water platform with a roost they can get up on to drink, so as to keep the open water away from the deep litter they like to plow through. 

Here's a pic of the coop last week before I cleared the snow off the sides....

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/3/37/900x900px-LL-37519caf_100_2568.jpeg)

Water bowl temporarily up on mother's step stool....   :lol:

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/4/4c/900x900px-LL-4c1f49e3_100_2581.jpeg)

I don't have a run, as these birds free range over 3 acres of meadow and adjacent woods.  We have 18 acres here, mostly wooded.  Their pop door is open 24/7, so they can come and go as they like and life is good for them here....they eat mostly foraged foods in the spring/summer/fall with only a little feed supplement.

(https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/483875_642255865789480_1953006417_n.jpg?oh=f48bad664d4978206ed53e93f5519fc6&oe=5569C450)

The chicken dog...keeps them safe.  He only looks like he's not on duty....really.  He's just pretending to sleep....

(https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/v/t1.0-9/600252_642260465789020_346273248_n.jpg?oh=43deaa741762aaee43e0fefd73452f87&oe=552251FA)

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/f/f6/900x900px-LL-f692453a_WRsintheclover.jpeg)

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/4/40/900x900px-LL-4037ebfc_100_1035.jpeg)

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/e/e1/900x900px-LL-e1d08215_WRsintheflowers4mo.jpeg)

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/3/33/900x900px-LL-33f6cbee_100_1419.jpeg)

(http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/0/00/900x900px-LL-0049c2d6_NHintheclover.jpeg)

I guess you could say that's my coop and run setup in a nutshell.  I've been raising chickens almost 40 yrs in various places and coop styles, most flocks were free range. 

I'm loving reading this forum and learning how you guys do it across the big water.   :)
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: joyfull on January 12, 2015, 12:21
lovely set up you have there Beekissed
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: barley on January 14, 2015, 05:57
wow BK what beautiful healthy chooks you have , they look well cared for
you live in a beautiful place
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Asherweef on January 14, 2015, 06:49
Looks fabulous - do you not have any predator issues with the pop door left open 24/7?
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: Beekissed on January 14, 2015, 16:26
Thank you all!  No, the dog takes care of predators for me.  He's a good chicken dog, though a tad too friendly to passing stray dogs.  Luckily that doesn't happen often. 
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: danfinn1 on August 18, 2015, 22:27
Here's mine an eglu go I just cleaned the coop out too. The chooks having their afternoon nap behind my chair in our utility room, which they do most afternoons :D
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: New shoot on August 19, 2015, 07:53
They look very comfy there Dan  :lol:
Title: Re: Post your Coop and Run set-ups here!!
Post by: andreadon on July 20, 2021, 15:34
We bought an omlet walk-in run.
It's 6ft x18ft and 6ft-odd tall.
DH got a pension from work (he's still working but his pension scheme has a sum at 60), so we decided to upgrade.
It was easy enough to assemble, but I've dug it into the ground by about 4-6" to make it a bit more secure.
I tore apart the old run, but we've still got the old coop because it's fine. Although, we had to split it in two and create a pophole at the back because Blossom can't stop bullying the newbies.  ???

Antway. It's big enough for 6 hens to live there permanently, we're going to "landscape" the rest of the tiny garden to look goid for humans, and we're putting plants around the outside - some for smell and some that the hens can eat through the bars  :lol: