Building A Chicken Ramp: Over The Fence Guide

Chicken ramps are a great way to give your chickens access to new areas, and they can be a fun feature for your coop. You can build a chicken ramp using salvage lumber, nails, and a hammer. The ramp should be wide enough for your chickens to walk comfortably, and you may need to add cleats or rungs to prevent them from getting injured, especially if the ramp is steep. The ideal angle for a chicken ramp is less than 45 degrees, and you can use a cinder block to decrease the pitch. To train your chickens to use the ramp, you can spread some chicken feed or treats across it.

Chicken ramp materials

Chicken ramps can be made from a variety of materials, depending on the design and your preferences. Here are some options for chicken ramp materials:

Wood:

Wood is a common material used for chicken ramps. You can use salvaged lumber, such as old fence boards or deck boards. The wood can be cut to the desired size and shape using a saw. It is recommended to use treated wood to improve durability and longevity. Some people also coat the wood with motor oil or paint to preserve it and make it easier to clean. To improve traction and prevent slipping, you can add wooden rods or strips, or use grip tape.

Wire Fencing:

Some chicken ramps use wire fencing material for the walking surface. The wire provides good grip and durability. However, some chickens may not be comfortable walking on wire, and it is recommended to provide a wooden surface for them to walk on. The wire fencing can be welded to a wood frame to create a sturdy and functional ramp.

Cinder Blocks:

Cinder blocks can be used to create steps for chickens to climb up and down. These blocks are sturdy and provide a solid surface for chickens to grip. Make sure the blocks are secure and cannot tumble over.

Other Materials:

Other materials can also be used for chicken ramps, such as hinges, garage floor paint, and chicken feed (for training purposes). Hinges can be added to the chicken coop door to create a makeshift ramp when opened. Garage floor paint with sand or rubber bits in it can provide traction and durability to wooden ramps. Chicken feed can be spread across the ramp during training to encourage chickens to use it.

It is important to consider the comfort, safety, and ease of use for the chickens when selecting materials for your chicken ramp.

Ramp angle and length

The ideal angle and length of a chicken ramp depend on several factors, including the height of the chicken coop, the breed of chickens, and their physical abilities.

Firstly, the height of the chicken coop determines the necessary length of the ramp. A general rule of thumb is that the higher the coop, the longer the ramp should be to maintain a gentle slope. For example, a coop 3 feet off the ground would require a longer ramp than a coop that is closer to the ground.

Secondly, the breed of chickens plays a role in determining the ideal ramp angle and length. Fluffy breeds, such as Silkies, may struggle with steeper ramps and require a gentler incline. Therefore, the recommended height for their coop door is 12 inches above the ground, compared to 18-24 inches for other breeds.

Additionally, the physical abilities of the chickens should be considered. If the chickens have clipped wings, they may be less inclined to fly up to the coop, and a ramp with a gentler slope may be more suitable. On the other hand, active and adventurous chickens might be more willing to navigate steeper ramps.

To ensure the safety and comfort of the chickens, it is generally recommended to keep the ramp angle below 30 degrees. If the angle exceeds 30 degrees, cleats or rungs should be added to provide traction and prevent injuries. The size and spacing of the cleats depend on the steepness of the ramp. For angles between 30 and 45 degrees, cleats should be at least 3/4 inch wide and high, placed 3 to 4 inches apart, and no more than 6 inches apart.

To make the ramp more accessible and inviting for chickens, some builders suggest using treats or chicken feed to encourage them to use it. Additionally, the ramp's surface should provide good traction to prevent slipping, and the ramp should be well-constructed to ensure the safety of the chickens.

Chicken ramp safety

The width of the ramp should also be considered for safety. A ramp that is too narrow may not provide enough secure footing for the chickens, especially if it is steep. A width of at least 8 inches is generally recommended. The material used for the ramp is crucial for safety. Wooden boards or plywood are common choices, with wooden boards being more durable and providing a good grip for chickens. Plywood may require reinforcement to prevent sagging over time.

To enhance safety, the ramp should have a gentle slope that the chickens can easily navigate. The angle of the ramp depends on the presence of rungs or cleats. If the ramp has no rungs, a gentle angle below 30 degrees is recommended. With rungs, the angle can be steeper, ranging from 30 to 50 degrees. The placement of gripping rungs or strips of wood every few inches is important to help chickens climb and descend safely.

Regular maintenance is essential for chicken ramp safety. The ramp should be monitored for wear and tear, and any necessary repairs or replacements should be made promptly. This maintenance ensures the ramp remains stable and secure, reducing the risk of accidents. Chicken behaviour should also be considered. Some chickens may avoid using the ramp and fly directly into the coop, so providing a safe flight path is crucial. Additionally, chickens may need encouragement to use the ramp, such as a trail of treats, especially when introducing them to a new ramp.

Chicken training

Start by building the ramp and ensuring it is safe and sturdy. The ramp should have a gentle slope, and if it is steep, consider adding cleats or rungs to provide a secure footing for your chickens. The ideal distance between cleats is 3-4 inches, and they should be at least 3/4-inch wide by 3/4-inch high.

Next, make the ramp an inviting and rewarding place for your chickens to explore. Spread some chicken feed across the ramp, or place treats about three to four inches apart, leading up the ramp. This will encourage your chickens to walk up the ramp and create a positive association with it. You can also put treats on the cleats so that your chickens can practice walking up and down them.

Be patient and persistent with your training. It may take several days for your chickens to become comfortable with the ramp. Observe their behaviour and make adjustments as needed.

If you are introducing an electric net fence, be aware that for your chickens to get a shock, they would need to touch a hot wire and the soil at the same time. Electric net fences typically do not have a top rail to sit on, so your chickens may not attempt to fly over it. However, if there is a tree branch above the fence, they may fly to the branch and then down to the other side.

Chicken ramp maintenance

Regular Cleaning

Keep the chicken ramp clean by removing any debris, such as dirt, leaves, or chicken droppings. Regular cleaning helps prevent the build-up of bacteria and parasites, creating a healthier environment for your chickens. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the ramp, ensuring it is thoroughly dried afterward.

Inspect for Wear and Tear

Frequently inspect the ramp for any signs of damage, such as loose nails, splintered wood, or broken rungs. Pay close attention to the areas where the chickens grip with their claws, as these sections may wear down over time. If you observe any damage, repair or replace the affected components to maintain the safety and functionality of the ramp.

Maintain Proper Grip and Traction

To prevent slipping, ensure the ramp provides adequate grip and traction for your chickens' claws. You can achieve this by periodically coating the ramp with a non-slip material or applying a textured surface. Some chicken keepers use motor oil, which helps preserve the wood and provides a non-slip surface. Additionally, consider adding strips of wood or other materials across the ramp every 6 inches to enhance traction, especially if the ramp is steep.

Adjustments for Steepness

If your ramp is steep, you may need to make adjustments to ease your chickens' climb. One method is to place a cinder block or another sturdy object under the bottom end of the ramp to reduce the angle of inclination. Alternatively, you can extend the length of the ramp to create a more gradual slope, making it easier for your chickens to navigate.

Chicken Behavior and Training

Observe your chickens' behavior and make adjustments as needed. Some chickens may be hesitant to use the ramp, especially if it is steep or made of uncomfortable materials. You can encourage your chickens to use the ramp by leaving a trail of treats leading up the ramp, training them to associate the ramp with a rewarding experience. Additionally, ensure that the ramp is positioned in a way that encourages its use, such as providing a clear path to their foraging area or favorite perching spots.

By following these maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your chicken ramp remains safe, functional, and well-suited to your chickens' needs, promoting their overall health and well-being.

Frequently asked questions