As you get ready to start building a backyard chicken pen, there are some critical aspects that you must keep in mind so that you see optimal results from the process. Many people are overlooking some aspects of the process that then lead them to have to either go back and rebuilt later on or else have chickens that aren’t laying eggs on a regular basis – which is a frustrating issue to say the least.
By taking the time to consider the following tips, you can help ensure that you do things right the first time around. This will also help to save you money – sometimes hundreds of dollars depending on the particular backyard chicken pen you’re building.
Here is what you must keep in mind.
Plan Your Windows Before Building
The first thing you should be doing is taking the time to plan the windows before you build your backyard chicken pen. The windows are going to be the primary source of light for your chicken coop, so you want to make sure that they are placed in the correct position.
You normally should cut the windows in the walls prior to constructing the coop so that you can get this right. Also think about what direction is going to give you the most natural sunlight since that’s where you should be maximizing the window placement on the chicken coop.
Think About Predators In Your Area
Second, also think about what predators are in your area that you will have to watch out for. In some cases this will influence the type of design you use for your backyard chicken pen so it’s something you definitely do not want to overlook.
Be sure whatever building plan you use, it thoroughly discusses the different predators that hunt for chickens and gives clear indications what areas have to worry about these the most. This will give you a good starting point to work off of when attempting to maximally protect your chickens.
Consider Your Primary Light Source
Now, if you happen to live in a location that doesn’t get a lot of natural sunlight, it will be important that you think about wiring in some electrical light into the backyard chicken pen.
Chickens do not respond well when they are not getting enough light, whether it’s sunlight or electrical light, so find a way to make sure your coop is well lit.
Electrical light can get to be rather expensive so usually it’s better to avoid this if you can, but in some cases that just isn’t possible.
Don’t Overlook Ventilation
Finally, also be sure that you don’t overlook ventilation in the backyard chicken pen. This will help ensure that the air inside stays fresh and is not only enjoyable for your chickens, but for you as well. If you hardly want to go into the chicken coop, the chances that you’re regularly maintaining it and spending time with the chickens will be dramatically reduced.
By being sure you keep these tips in mind, you will increase your chances of creating a backyard chicken pen that’s a big success. The more information you can gain before you start to build, the better your results will be.
