Building A Meat Chicken Pen: A Yard Project

Raising chickens in your backyard can be rewarding and enjoyable. Constructing a chicken pen can help protect your chickens from predators and prevent them from wandering into your neighbour's yard. Chicken pens can be built using various materials, such as wood, PVC pipes, or wire fencing, and can be customised to fit your space and the number of chickens you plan to keep. Building your own chicken pen can also be a cost-effective option, allowing you to choose affordable materials and avoid labour costs. This introduction will explore the benefits of building a chicken pen and provide an overview of the materials, design options, and considerations for constructing a functional and secure enclosure for your chickens.

Chicken pen size and location

When building a chicken pen, it is important to consider the breed of chicken and the purpose of raising them, whether it is for meat, eggs, or both. The number of chickens you plan to keep will also determine the size and location of the pen.

For meat chickens, it is recommended to provide 1-2 square feet of space per bird. For example, a pen measuring 10 feet by 5 feet can accommodate 25 birds comfortably, allowing for 2 square feet per bird. If you have fewer birds, you can adjust the size of the pen to 8 feet by 4 feet. Ensure that the pen has adequate shade and protection from wind and rain by covering at least three sides with a tarp.

The location of the chicken pen is crucial to protect your chickens from predators and natural elements. It is advisable to build the pen in a yard or backyard, providing enough space for the chickens to roam and forage. The pen should be fully enclosed with chicken wire or hardware cloth to keep the chickens safe from predators. Extending the chicken wire along the sides and across the top of the pen will ensure that your chickens are well-protected.

When selecting the specific spot for the pen, consider the direction of the sun to provide shade during hot weather. Placing the pen near trees or other structures can offer additional shade, but ensure there is adequate ventilation and sunlight to prevent dampness and the buildup of ammonia from chicken waste.

Additionally, consider the terrain and choose a well-drained area to avoid waterlogging during rainy seasons. Slightly elevated ground can help with drainage, and you may also want to incorporate a slight slope within the pen to encourage water runoff. These considerations will help keep your chickens healthy and comfortable.

Chicken coop design

Before you start, you will need basic tools such as a hammer, nails, and a measuring tape. You will also need to decide on the location and size of your chicken coop. The size will depend on the number of chickens you plan to keep and the breed. For example, a 10’x5’x2’ chicken tractor can hold 25 birds at 2 square feet each, while a 4 x 8 ft coop is suitable for 8-10 chickens.

When you are ready to build, start by measuring and marking out the area. You will then need to dig holes for the posts—a 12' x 6' chicken pen, for instance, requires four 3' holes with four 4 x 4 posts in each hole. Cementing the posts is optional but recommended for added stability. Next, nail the frame together, using 2 x 4’s for the sides and top of the structure. Attach a gate to one corner post with hinges and a closing hasp.

The chicken coop should be enclosed with chicken wire or hardware cloth to protect the chickens from predators. Ensure that the wire extends along all sides and across the top of the structure. You can also use hog wire panels for the bottom third of the pen for added protection. Finally, add a tarp to at least three sides of the chicken tractor to provide shade and protection from the elements. Don't forget to include a water bowl and a feed tray or trough if the chickens will be enclosed.

Materials and tools

Building a chicken pen in your yard is a great way to ensure your chickens have a safe space to roam. The materials and tools you will need to build a chicken pen include:

• Basic tools such as a hammer, nails, and a measuring tape.
• Four 4 x 4 posts approximately 10' long, with 3' in the ground and 7' standing above for the corners of the pen.
• A post-hole digger or shovel.
• Chicken wire and hardware cloth for the gate and to enclose the perimeter of the pen, including an additional length of wire to cover the top of the pen to protect against predators.
• Chicken wire nails and standard post nails.
• Wooden boards such as 2 x 4's and 1 x 6's of varying lengths for the frame and to face the pen.
• A "roosting pole" or a substitute such as a broomstick or mop handle.
• A water bowl and feed tray or trough if the chickens will be enclosed.

You may also want to consider adding a tarp to provide shade and protection from the elements, as well as a nesting box, perch, and ramp for the chickens.

It is important to consider the breed of chicken and the number of chickens you plan to keep when determining the size and materials for your chicken pen. Some plans and tutorials are available online that can provide specific instructions and material lists for building a chicken pen.

Construction steps

Before you start building your chicken pen, it's important to plan the size and location. Consider the breed of chicken and how many you intend to keep. A chicken tractor design can be a good option for meat chickens, and you should allow for 1-2 square feet of space per bird. For example, a pen measuring 10' x 5' x 2' can hold 25 birds at 2 square feet each.

Once you've decided on the size, gather your materials and tools. You will need wood for the frame and wire mesh for the sides and top to protect the chickens from predators. Pressure-treated wood can be used to add a more finished look. Hog wire panels can be used for the bottom third of the pen, with chicken wire extending along the sides and across the top.

Now, you can begin constructing the frame. Cut your wood to size and use screws to attach the main boards to form the bottom frame. For added support, attach one 2' board vertically in each corner and in the middle of each side. Build the top frame and attach a 5' board across the back half for support.

Next, attach the wire mesh to the frame. Use hardware cloth or chicken wire, keeping in mind that hardware cloth offers better protection against predators. Cover at least three sides of the pen with a tarp to provide shade and protection from the elements.

Finally, add the finishing touches. Include a water bowl and a feed tray or trough if the chickens will be enclosed. You can also add perches, nesting boxes, and a ramp inside the pen. Ensure the chickens can access their new home through a gate, which can be custom-made with hinges and a closing hasp.

Chicken pen maintenance

Chicken pens require regular maintenance to ensure the health, happiness, and productivity of your flock. Here are some detailed guidelines for maintaining your chicken pen:

Cleaning

Chicken pens should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and diseases that can pose health risks to your chickens. Cleaning chores can be streamlined by using a basement area or waste collection system, as seen in some chicken coop models. Shoveling out the pen can be made easier by keeping lots of straw on the floor, which can later be composted. It is also beneficial to dig up the dirt in the pen, providing chickens with a fresh place to dust bathe and smoothing out the area.

Predator Protection

Chicken pens should be regularly inspected for vulnerabilities that may allow predators access. Chicken wire, while cheaper, is more susceptible to predators, so it is recommended to use hardware cloth or a similar alternative. Hog wire panels can also be used for the bottom third of the pen for added protection. Ensuring your chickens are safely enclosed in their pen will provide peace of mind and protect your flock.

Adequate Space

When maintaining your chicken pen, consider the breed of your chickens and ensure they have adequate space. As a general rule, allow for 1-2 square feet of space per bird. For example, a 10'x5'x2' pen can hold 25 birds at 2 square feet each. If your flock size increases, adjust the size of your pen or consider integrating a free-range area for your chickens to roam and exercise.

Shade and Protection

Provide shade and protection from the elements for your chickens by adding a tarp to at least three sides of the pen. A thicker tarp is recommended to withstand wind, rain, and other weather conditions. Ensure the tarp is large enough to double up if needed, providing extra protection during harsh weather.

Feed and Water

In addition to maintaining the pen, it is crucial to provide adequate feed and water for your chickens. While feeders and waterers can be purchased, simple improvisations can be made, such as using a short piece of gutter as a feeder. Ensure these are easily accessible to streamline your daily chores and promote the well-being of your chickens.

Frequently asked questions