Beginner Chicken Coop Ideas We're Considering

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Of all the animals on our someday list, chickens are first. They're smaller, cheaper, and a little more forgiving of beginners. They also pay rent in eggs. The only thing standing in the way is a coop, so we're in full research mode.

What beginners should look for in a coop

• The right size. A common rule of thumb is about 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and about 10 square feet per bird in the run. Many coops advertise more birds than they comfortably fit, so check the dimensions.
• A pull-out tray or easy-clean floor. You will clean this coop more than you think. Make it easy.
• Nesting boxes you can reach from outside. Collecting eggs without climbing in is a gift.
• Ventilation. Vents near the roof let moisture out without creating a draft on the birds.
• Predator protection. Hardware cloth, not chicken wire, and latches a raccoon can't open.

Gear we're adding to the list

An automatic coop door. It opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, which is perfect for people who do things on a whim and forget what time it is.

A good waterer and feeder. Hanging or nipple-style waterers stay cleaner than open dishes.

A beginner chicken book. Because the internet has strong opinions and we need one calm voice.

Prebuilt or DIY?

Prebuilt coops are fast and many are affordable, but the cheapest ones can be flimsy. A DIY coop from plans can be sturdier, if you have the time and skills. We have neither, so we'll likely buy a well-reviewed prebuilt coop and reinforce it.

Someday chickens. The research phase is going great.