Free Range Chicken Coop - Keeping Chickens Safe While Allowing them Freedom

For chickens that are allowed to free range they require a chicken coop that is much different than other types of coops. A free range chicken coop will have areas where a chicken can be outside as well as spots that it can find shade and protection.

Free range does not necessarily mean unlimited range, but rather it refers to the chickens being able to roam out of doors during the day and then only put into a coop at night.

By raising chickens in a free range chicken coop, there are benefits for both the hen and the eggs they produce. Allowing hens to free range results in chickens that eat a more natural diet and this results in eggs that will taste better and be more nutritious.

The hens benefit immensely by being allowed free range, they are able to get out in the sunshine, fresh air and this makes them healthier and less stressful. It results in fewer fights and happier hens.

A free range chicken coop will need to have nesting boxes for the chickens. It will also require that there be places that produce adequate shelter from the sun, rain and other elements.

It is good to have a way to secure the coop at night so that predators cannot get to the chickens. A lot of the design of the coop will depend on the type of property you are keeping the chickens on. If it is in a backyard or other close type quarters, it may be necessary to affix a chicken run to the coop so that the chickens are allowed to free range but just in a controlled situation.

If one lives in the country or in a spot with a lot of land, the run may not be necessary and the chickens can be allowed more mobility.

There are many ways to build a free range chicken coop. One only needs to do a bit of research on the internet and they will be able to locate several types of plans for various coops.

The good thing about building a chicken coop for yourself is you are able to personalize and alter the coop to fit the area you have and your particular needs. Many people build free range chicken coops that are moveable and called chicken tractors.

These allow the chickens to peck and eat grass weeds and bugs from the ground as well as still stay protected. These are beneficial as they can be moved from spot to spot to allow the ground time to rest.

Phil from http://www.thechickencoopplan.com has a wealth of experience when it comes to building a chicken coop. Plus he is experience free range chicken coop so check it out http://www.thechickencoopplan.com/free-range-chicken-coop