Constructing A Chicken Run On A Hillside

Building a chicken run on a hill is a challenging but rewarding project. A chicken run is a fenced outdoor area attached to a chicken coop that allows chickens to roam freely while being protected from predators. When building on a slope, it's important to choose the right materials and plan thoughtfully. The roof of the run should match the slope of the hill to facilitate water runoff, and you may need to build a ramp for your chickens to access the coop. Before you begin, consider the size of your flock, the height of the fence, and the types of predators you need to protect your chickens from.

Choose the right materials

When building a chicken run on a hill, it is important to choose the right materials to ensure the safety and comfort of your chickens. Here are some key considerations for selecting the appropriate materials:

Fencing and Posts

For the fencing, you can use welded wire with 2" x 4" spacing to prevent chickens from escaping and to keep predators out. Make sure the wire is sturdy enough to withstand any scratching or pecking by your chickens. The recommended spacing between fence posts is 6 to 8 feet, and they should be placed around the perimeter of the run. The posts should be made from durable materials such as wood or metal, and they should be sunk firmly into the ground. For added stability, consider sinking the posts into concrete.

Roofing and Covering

If your chicken run will have a roof, it is important to match the slope of the roof to the slope of the hill. This will help to shed rain and snow effectively. Metal roofing is an excellent option as it is sturdy, weather-resistant, and can be used for both the coop and the run to save costs. Alternatively, you can use other durable roofing materials such as asphalt shingles or clay tiles, ensuring they are properly angled to match the slope.

Flooring

The flooring of the chicken run can be left as dirt, which is a natural and cost-effective option. However, if you prefer to add a floor, consider using materials that are easy to clean and durable. Concrete is one option, but it may be more expensive. Wood can also be used, but it is important to choose a type of wood that can withstand the elements and will not rot or peel over time. Treated wood or cedar boards can be a good choice, but be aware that they may need to be replaced periodically.

Protection from Predators

To protect your chickens from predators, it is essential to cover all openings with strong metal wire mesh or hardware cloth. Chicken wire is not sufficient to keep predators out, as they can break through or reach through the openings. Hardware cloth, with openings no larger than 0.5 inches, can be added along the bottom of the run to prevent animals from digging in. You can also secure locks on the doors and windows of the coop for added protection.

Comfort and Convenience

Provide a comfortable environment for your chickens by ensuring adequate shade, especially in warmer climates. Trees or other sources of consistent shade can help regulate temperatures. In colder climates, full sun exposure for the run can help warm up the chickens. Additionally, consider adding a ramp if the coop door is raised, making it easier for chickens to access the run and preventing injuries.

By carefully selecting the right materials and following the above guidelines, you can create a safe, comfortable, and durable chicken run on a hill.

Plan the layout

Planning the layout of your chicken run is an important step in the building process. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you plan the layout effectively:

First, determine the size of your chicken run. The general rule of thumb is to provide a minimum of 3 to 10 square feet of outdoor run space per chicken. This will ensure that your chickens have enough room to move around comfortably and will also accommodate future growth if you plan to expand your flock. It's a good idea to build bigger than you think you need, especially if you live in a cold climate with long winters, as your chickens might be spending more time in the run.

Next, consider the location of your chicken run. Choose a spot that allows for easy maintenance and provides protection for your chickens. If you're building on a hillside or sloped terrain, select a location on high ground to avoid waste runoff, flooding, or water buildup. Make sure to clear the area of any rocks, twigs, and large branches that could pose a hazard. Additionally, opt for a shady spot to keep your chickens cool in warmer months. If there are no trees, consider planting some near the run to provide consistent shade.

When planning the layout, decide on the shape of your chicken run. It is recommended to aim for a square or rectangular shape with sides of similar length rather than a long and narrow design. This will provide a more functional and spacious area for your chickens to roam. You can use boards to lay out the shape on the ground before finalising the dimensions.

Furthermore, consider the fencing and enclosure details. Determine the spacing of your fence posts, which should be placed approximately 6 to 8 feet apart along the perimeter. Decide on the type of fencing material, ensuring that it is sturdy and predator-proof. Chicken wire or welded wire fencing can be used, but for added protection against predators, consider adding a strip of hardware cloth along the bottom of the run. Don't forget to plan for a gate, positioning it where convenient and allowing for easy access.

Lastly, think about the placement of essential items within the run. This includes a container of food and water, ensuring they are protected from the elements and securely covered to prevent chickens from accessing them directly. If your coop has sufficient space, you may opt to keep the food and water inside. Additionally, consider any other accessories you may want to include, such as perches or nesting boxes, and plan their layout accordingly.

Prepare the ground

When preparing the ground for a chicken run on a hill, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is crucial to choose a location that allows for easy maintenance and provides protection for your chickens. Opt for high ground to prevent waste runoff, flooding, or water buildup, and select a shady area to keep the chickens cool and comfortable. Ensure there are no large branches that could potentially fall and damage the structure.

Before beginning construction, clear the land by removing rocks, twigs, and any other debris. If your chicken run will be attached to an existing coop, you may need to dig out a trench to level the ground and attach the run. Alternatively, you can use ""pointy posts" and wire to secure the run without needing to level the ground. This method involves creating a structure with wire and a wood base, which can be easily moved and adjusted as needed.

When planning the layout of your chicken run, it is recommended to lay boards on the ground to visualize the shape and size. The recommended minimum space is 10 square feet per chicken, so be sure to allocate enough space for your flock with room to expand. For example, if you have 10 chickens, plan for a pen that is at least 100 square feet.

In terms of materials, standard tools and supplies can be purchased from your local hardware store. For fencing, you can use welded wire with T-posts for additional support. While chicken wire is commonly used, it may not be strong enough to keep predators out. Instead, consider using hardware cloth or metal fencing with small holes to protect your chickens from raccoons and other predators.

Finally, when constructing the frame of your chicken run, use 2x4s along the ground and future roofline, ensuring everything is level. You may need to do some dirt work to level out the inside of the run if there is a slope. Secure the frame with construction screws, and fill in any post holes with soil.

Build the frame

Building a chicken run on a hill is a challenging but rewarding task. Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions for building the frame:

First, you need to plan the layout of your run. It is recommended to have at least 10 square feet of outdoor space per chicken. You can lay boards on the ground to visualize the shape and size of the run. Keep in mind that the run should be wider rather than long and narrow. Choose a location on high ground to avoid waste runoff, flooding, or water buildup. Make sure to pick a shady area to keep your chickens cool in warm weather.

Next, start constructing the frame by placing fence posts along the perimeter. Space the posts about 6 to 8 feet apart, no more than 10 feet. Use a level to ensure they are straight, and set them at least 1 foot deep into the ground. If your run is on a hill, you may need to dig a trench to level the ground or adjust the height of the posts accordingly. Hammer the posts into the ground or sink them in concrete for stability.

Now, add 2x4s along the future roof line and the ground, making sure to check the level as you work. Secure these with construction screws. If the ground inside the run is sloped, you may need to level it out with dirt or other materials. Ensure that the framed walls of the coop are cut to match the angle of the roof for a seamless fit.

After the frame is complete, you can start adding the protective fencing. Use sturdy metal wire mesh or hardware cloth with small openings to keep predators out. Wrap the perimeter with this fencing, burying it at least 4 inches into the ground to deter burrowing animals. Also, consider covering the top of the run with the same material, especially if you have aerial predators like hawks in your area.

Finally, if your chicken coop door is more than a foot off the ground, consider building a ramp to provide easy access for your chickens and to prevent injuries. You can use wood or other materials to create a stable ramp that matches the slope of the hill.

Remember to always measure twice and cut once, and don't be afraid to adjust your plans as you go. Building a chicken run on a hill requires some extra planning and effort, but it will result in a safe and comfortable space for your chickens to enjoy.

Add fencing

When building a chicken run on a hill, it's important to consider the type of fencing material you'll use, the height of the fence, and the layout of the run.

First, choose a fencing material that suits your needs. While chicken wire is commonly used, it may not be strong enough to keep predators out. Instead, consider using welded wire fencing with small openings, such as 2"x4"" or 14-gauge wire, to prevent raccoons and other predators from reaching into the run. You can also add a strip of hardware cloth, a type of metal fencing with very small holes (no larger than 1/2 inch), along the bottom of the run for added protection. If you're particularly concerned about security, you could build the entire run out of hardware cloth, but it is a more expensive option.

Next, determine the height of your fence. Consider the breed of your chickens as some are known for flying over 6-foot fences. To accommodate this, you may need to increase the height of your fence to 7 or 8 feet.

Now, let's discuss the layout of the fencing for your chicken run on a hill. Start by laying out boards on the ground to get an idea of the shape and size of the run. It's generally recommended to have a minimum of 10 square feet of outdoor run space per chicken. For example, if you have 10 chickens, plan for a pen that's at least 100 square feet. When placing the fence posts, space them 6 to 8 feet apart along the perimeter of the run. Use a level to ensure they are set straight and a measuring tape to confirm they are equidistant from each other. Don't forget to think about the placement of your gate and leave enough space for chickens to comfortably enter and exit the run. Once you've determined the layout, start hammering the posts into the ground, ensuring they are at least 1 foot deep.

Finally, wrap the perimeter in chicken wire or your chosen fencing material, sinking the wire at least 4 inches into the ground to prevent predators from digging their way in. Additionally, lay the wire over the top of the run to prevent aerial predators like hawks from accessing the enclosure.

Frequently asked questions