A Guide For Chicken Houses And Runs

Although the end of September peppered us with a late flurry of summer, winter seems to have well and truly set in with the windy and wet weather scattering much of the country. It's this time of year that you need to ensure that your chickens are well protected, safe and secure. To help, follow the guidelines outlined below, which offer advice about both how to winter proof the chicken houses and your flock.

Housing:
Whilst you and your family are sat in-front of the fire or with the central heating warming up the house, think about your chickens outside in their coop. As this is where they'll be spending the majority of their team, it's important to make sure that it's in the best condition for them.

Before the frost starts to settle in and prevent you from getting out in your garden whilst your chickens roam free, it is highly recommended to check the coops.

Whilst inspecting the coop it is important to make sure that you check all areas for any draughts and leaks; whilst also making sure that the ventilation for the coop is above the heads of the chickens. This will not only help keep your birds warm and toasty, but it'll also prevent you from having any problems getting your birds in at night.

 

If you're looking to offer extra protection to your birds use an old carpet or tarpaulin to cover the coop, or visit your local chicken specialists and purchase one of their specially designed chicken coop covers.

Runs:
It's likely that during the winter months your birds won't want to frolic too far from the coop, due to it being cold and the ground also likely to be waterlogged. However, it is important that they still get regular exercise and access to fresh air. Fortunately this can be achieved by adding a run onto the coop or placing one nearby, which offers your birds the chance to explore whilst keeping safe and warm.

Through your local chicken specialists you'll be able to find a range of suitable chicken runs of various sizes which can either be attached to, placed near or surrounding the chicken coops.

Two examples include a 6foot by 6foot by 3foot mesh run complete with a front opening door and hinged top, which enables easy access for you to clean the area, whilst also providing enough room for your birds to roam. If you're looking for something a bit smaller, then how about a run which can be attached to the coop and is only 6foot by 3foot by 3foot, with a small pop hold which will allow chickens to gain safe access from their coop.

If you'd like more information as to how the range of chicken houses and coops available which will keep your birds warm, dry and safe during this winter, please do not hesitate to contact your local chicken specialists today and seek their advice and guidance.