[batcatz]

Hi, just need ideas on how to convert an old hexagonal 8x10 aviary into a good chicken run.  It's roofed and the aviary weld mesh is good, but it has got woodworm, its rotting etc so repairs need to be made and I need to make it fox proof as some of it is on mud hence the rotting!  This is probably the cheapest option for me.

The house was never used by the cockateils and its probably too high for the chickens so am gonna rip it out especially as its been chewed. 

I somehow need to get a new chicken house in there. 

Does this all sound feasible or should I rip the whole thing down and build or buy a nice new 6x4 run instead?

Amanda

[poultrygeist]

Hi AManda.

Have you got any photos you can show us ?

It sounds fine for 2 or 3 hens and they can climb a fairly steep ramp to get up to the house, so you don't lose any floor area.

ROb

[batcatz]

Hi, here's some photos of the aviary.  This is the inside area!  Needs replacement roof and floor, plus a new front and pop hole.  This is why I was thinking of removing it and buying a new hen house.   It could sit outside the aviary flight.

[Hawthorn Harry]

It looks perfect....... well apart from the holes etc.  Stick with it.  What is the saying Recycle, re-use and reduce.. or something like that!!!!

[batcatz]

aviary

[poultrygeist]

I agree with Hary. Fix the floor and roof and it'll be fine.

They'll soon get the hang of any ramp, as long as it's wide enough and has suitable grip.

Looks like you ave a slab floor in the run which can be covered with a good layer of bark chippings or similar. It'll be easy to hose down and disinfect periodically.

How many hens did you want ?

ROb

[Hawthorn Harry]

I can see a unique two-tier affair, a nice roosting shelf area half way up with a final ramp to the coop. 

A true project to get stuck into!!!

 

[batcatz]

I agree with Hary. Fix the floor and roof and it'll be fine.

Looks like you ave a slab floor in the run ...
How many hens did you want ?

ROb

Hi, thanks!  Yes, its a part slab floor.  Unfortunately, not all around the edges so will have to fix that too!

No idea how long it will take me to fix the house and find a ladder!    I managed to build a patio especially for the chicken coop I have, but then decided it was too good for the coop. lol.   

I already have a silkie and a speckledy hen, a silkie cockerel who is being swapped for another hen tomorrow, and I am picking up a lavender aracauna on Saturday. 

So the two new hens will either live in my cat run or aviary for quarantine and before integration and maybe roost in the current chicken run.  The actual run is too small so I let them all out in the day.  Photo attached.

So that will be 4 hens, but of course I'd like a couple more!   
Amanda

[batcatz]

I can see a unique two-tier affair, a nice roosting shelf area half way up with a final ramp to the coop. 

A true project to get stuck into!!!

 

Yes!  That sounds good and solves the problem of a huge ladder.  I might have to move the door which is at the back to the side though as I am always banging my head on the house. hehe
Amanda

[Hawthorn Harry]

Good Luck.  We look forward to a pre=ogress report!!!