The Essential Guide to a Chicken Coop for a Large Flock

Finding the Best Chicken Coop for Large Flock

That first coop was perfect for your starter flock of six. But "chicken math" happened, and now twenty-five birds are bursting at the seams. An overcrowded coop means more squabbles, more stress, and way more work for you. You need a chicken coop for a large flock that simplifies your daily chores, not complicates them. The right coop can handle the traffic and keep your growing flock healthy and harmonious. We’ll show you how to calculate the right amount of space and what features make cleaning a breeze, so you can upgrade with confidence.

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Key Takeaways

  • Focus on the Fundamentals for a Healthy Flock: The health of your chickens depends directly on their environment. Ensure any coop you consider provides at least four square feet of indoor space per bird, excellent ventilation to prevent respiratory issues, and solid, predator-proof construction for complete security.
  • Choose a Design That Simplifies Your Chores: Managing a large flock is much easier with a thoughtfully designed coop. A walk-in style eliminates crouching and crawling, while easy-to-clean surfaces and accessible features turn daily maintenance from a dreaded task into a simple routine.
  • View Your Coop as a Long-Term Investment: A cheap coop often leads to costly repairs and worries down the road. Investing in a well-built structure made from quality materials provides lasting durability, better protection for your flock, and the peace of mind that comes with a secure, permanent home.

Your Checklist for the Perfect Large Flock Coop

When you have a big, happy flock, finding the right home for them is about more than just square footage. The best coops are designed to keep your chickens healthy, safe, and comfortable, which makes your job as a chicken keeper so much easier. A well-designed coop for a large flock considers everything from personal space and air quality to security and seasonal comfort. Prioritizing these key features from the start will save you time and worry down the road, ensuring your chickens have a home that truly helps them thrive. When you start looking at customizable coops, you'll see how these thoughtful details come together to create the perfect environment. Let’s walk through the essential features you should look for.

How Much Room Do Your Chickens Really Need?

Overcrowding is a major source of stress and health problems in a flock, so getting the space right is your first priority. Chickens need room to roam, roost, and nest without constantly bumping into each other. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least four square feet of indoor coop space per standard-sized bird and about 8 to 10 inches of roosting space per bird. For the outdoor run, aim for at least 10 square feet per chicken. Remember, these are minimums—more space is always better! Giving your flock ample room helps prevent issues like feather pecking and keeps the coop cleaner for longer. When you design your chicken coop, planning for a little extra space is a smart move, especially if you think you might add more chickens later.

Keep Your Flock Healthy with Good Airflow

Proper ventilation is one of the most critical features of a healthy chicken coop, especially for a large one. Think about it: more chickens mean more moisture from breathing and more ammonia from droppings. Without good airflow, that damp, ammonia-filled air gets trapped inside, which can lead to serious respiratory problems for your flock. A well-ventilated coop has vents near the ceiling to let warm, moist air escape and windows or vents lower down to allow fresh air to circulate without creating a draft. This constant air exchange is necessary to keep the coop dry and fresh, protecting your chickens’ health year-round.

Predator-Proofing Your Large Chicken Coop

Keeping your flock safe from predators is a non-negotiable. A large flock can be a tempting target for raccoons, hawks, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs. To protect your chickens, you need to prioritize solid, predator-proof construction. This means no gaps or weak spots a predator could exploit. Look for coops built with sturdy materials, secure latches on all doors and windows, and heavy-duty hardware cloth (not flimsy chicken wire) covering any openings. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your flock is tucked in safely each night is priceless, so never compromise on security features when planning your custom projects.

Designing for a Low-Maintenance Coop

Let’s be honest: a large flock produces a lot of waste. A coop that’s difficult to clean will quickly become a chore you dread. To make your life easier, look for features that simplify maintenance. Walk-in coops are a game-changer, as they allow you to stand up straight while you clean instead of crouching. Other essential features include easy-to-clean surfaces like linoleum flooring, and removable roosting bars and nesting boxes. When you can easily access every corner of the coop, you’re more likely to keep it sparkling clean, which is essential for preventing the spread of parasites and disease and keeping your flock healthy.

Choosing a Coop for Year-Round Comfort

Your coop is your flock’s shelter from everything nature throws its way, from summer heatwaves to winter snowstorms. A well-built coop should be designed to be weather-resistant and comfortable in any season. For cold climates, this might mean insulated walls and ceilings to retain heat. For hot climates, features like shaded windows, ridge vents, and a reflective roof can make a huge difference. A durable coop built with high-quality materials will stand up to rain, wind, and sun for years, making it a worthwhile investment. Choosing a coop that’s built for your specific climate ensures your chickens stay safe and comfortable all year long.

What is the 90/10 Rule for Chickens?

Think of the 90/10 rule as the golden rule of chicken nutrition. It’s a simple guideline that ensures your flock gets everything they need to stay healthy and productive. The rule states that 90% of your chickens' diet should come from a high-quality, nutritionally complete feed formulated for their specific life stage—whether they're chicks, pullets, or laying hens. This balanced feed is the foundation of their health, providing all the essential vitamins, minerals, and protein they need to thrive. The other 10% is where the fun comes in! This portion can be made up of healthy treats like scratch grains, leafy greens, or bits of fruit. Just be sure to keep treats to a minimum, about two tablespoons per chicken each day, to avoid disrupting their balanced diet and causing health issues.

Calculating the Perfect Coop Size for Your Flock

Figuring out the right dimensions for your coop can feel like a puzzle, but it’s one of the most important steps to ensuring a happy, healthy flock. Chickens, just like people, need their personal space to thrive. Overcrowding can lead to stress, pecking, and health issues, while a well-proportioned coop promotes harmony. The key is to think about how your flock will use both their indoor and outdoor areas. Let’s break down how to calculate the perfect amount of room for your feathered family, from their sleeping quarters to their play space.

Mapping Out Your Indoor Coop Area

The coop is your flock’s safe haven—where they sleep, lay eggs, and shelter from bad weather. A great coop is a healthy coop, and that starts with giving each chicken enough room. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least four square feet of floor space per standard-sized chicken inside the coop. So, for a flock of 20 chickens, you’d want an interior of at least 80 square feet. If you’re raising larger breeds like Orpingtons or Wyandottes, aim for a little more. Providing ample space is one of the best ways to protect your flock’s well-being and prevent squabbles. When you design your own coop, you can tailor the dimensions perfectly to your flock’s size.

Square Footage Recommendations

Getting your coop's dimensions right is the foundation for a happy flock. Here are the key numbers to keep in mind: for the indoor coop, plan for at least four square feet per standard-sized chicken. For the outdoor run, the minimum is 10 square feet per bird. Think of these as starting points—more space is always a great idea to prevent stress and keep things cleaner. So, for a 20-bird flock, you're looking at a minimum of 80 square feet inside the coop and 200 square feet in the run. It’s always wise to build a little bigger than you think you need, especially if you catch a case of "chicken math" and your flock grows. When you start to design your coop, keeping these numbers handy will help you create the perfect layout.

Planning the Ideal Outdoor Run

The outdoor run is your chickens’ playground. It’s where they’ll spend their days scratching, foraging, and sunbathing. To keep them happy, plan for at least 10 square feet of run space per chicken. For that same flock of 20, this means a 200-square-foot run. A spacious run gives everyone room to roam and reduces the concentration of droppings in one area. This is crucial because ammonia buildup from droppings can cause respiratory problems for your flock. A larger, well-drained run helps keep the ground cleaner and the air fresher, contributing to the overall health of your birds. It’s an essential part of creating a safe and stimulating environment.

How Many Roosts and Nesting Boxes Do You Need?

Inside the coop, two features are critical: roosting bars and nesting boxes. Chickens naturally prefer to sleep elevated off the ground, so you’ll need about 8-10 inches of roosting bar space for each bird. For nesting boxes, the magic ratio is one box for every four to five hens. It might be tempting to add extra boxes, but having too many can actually take away from valuable floor space, and your hens will likely just pick a few favorites to use anyway. You can find plenty of functional and stylish coop accessories to make these spaces comfortable and inviting for your flock.

Why You'll Love a Walk-In Coop

When you have a large flock, convenience for the caretaker is just as important as comfort for the chickens. This is where a walk-in coop truly shines. Being able to stand up straight while cleaning, gathering eggs, and checking on your flock makes daily chores so much easier and more enjoyable. A spacious, heavy-duty coop you can walk right into provides ample room for both your chickens and you. No more crouching or crawling! This simple design choice can transform your chicken-keeping experience, making it easier to manage a large flock and spend quality time with your birds. Many customizable coops are designed with this feature in mind.

Sizing a Coop for 100 Chickens

Housing a flock of 100 chickens is a serious operation, and getting the dimensions right is the foundation for success. Based on best practices, you'll need a coop with at least 400 square feet of indoor floor space to prevent overcrowding and keep your birds healthy. For their outdoor run, where they'll spend their days foraging and dust bathing, you should plan for a minimum of 1,000 square feet. Inside, you'll also need to fit between 67 and 83 feet of roosting bars for comfortable sleeping and provide 20 to 25 nesting boxes for your hens. A coop of this scale often goes beyond standard models, which is why many large-flock owners explore custom projects to ensure every detail is perfect for their needs and their property.

The Best Chicken Coop Brands for Large Flocks

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to explore some of the best brands that cater to large flocks. Each company offers something a little different, whether your priority is deep customization, simple assembly, or sheer size. Finding the right fit means matching a brand’s strengths to your specific needs as a chicken keeper. We’ll walk through some of the top names in the game so you can see how they stack up and decide which one is the perfect match for you and your feathered family.

Cutest Coops: Custom-Built Designs

If you’re looking for a coop that’s as beautiful as it is functional, Cutest Coops is the perfect place to start. These Amish-built coops are designed to be a long-term investment in the health and safety of your flock. You can design your own coop from the ground up, ensuring every detail fits your style and your chickens’ needs. Each one is built to be predator-safe, weather-resistant, and incredibly easy to clean, which makes the day-to-day of chicken-keeping a true joy. While they are a premium option, the craftsmanship and quality materials mean you’re getting a structure that will last for years to come.

OverEZ: Coops Designed for Easy Assembly

For those who want a reliable, sturdy coop without a complicated setup, OverEZ is a fantastic choice. Their chicken houses are known for being incredibly easy to assemble, often taking less than an hour with just a few people. This makes them a popular option for chicken keepers who want to get their flock settled quickly and without hassle. While they don't offer the deep customization of other brands, OverEZ coops are well-built and designed with the chicken’s comfort in mind, featuring good ventilation and nesting boxes that are easy to access.

Key Features and Cost

OverEZ coops are built with the fundamentals of flock health in mind, offering solid construction, good ventilation, and designs that provide adequate space for your birds. They are a practical, mid-range option that covers the essentials for keeping your chickens safe and comfortable. While they may not offer the high-end finishes or deep customization of a bespoke build, they represent a solid choice for a pre-fabricated structure. Think of it as a reliable starter home for a large flock. Investing in a well-built structure is always a smart move, as quality materials provide lasting durability and better protection. For those planning for the future, considering a long-term investment in a coop tailored to your specific needs can offer even greater peace of mind.

Assembly Tips

The biggest draw for OverEZ is their straightforward assembly process. These coops are designed to be put together quickly, often in under an hour with a helper, making them an excellent choice if you're not a fan of complicated DIY projects. The instructions are clear, and the pieces fit together without much fuss. While a quick setup is a definite plus, it’s also wise to think about long-term convenience. For example, daily chores are much simpler in a walk-in coop that allows you to stand up while cleaning and collecting eggs. So, while OverEZ gets you up and running fast, consider how the coop’s design will impact your daily routine for years to come.

Roost & Root: Great for Walk-In XL Coops

When you have a very large flock, space is everything. Roost & Root specializes in impressive, walk-in coops that can comfortably house dozens of chickens. Their largest model, the Heritage 40, can accommodate up to 50 chickens in style. These coops come fully loaded with premium materials, oversized roosts, and spacious nesting boxes. The walk-in design not only gives your chickens plenty of room but also makes cleaning and collecting eggs much easier for you. If you need a high-capacity coop that doesn’t compromise on quality, Roost & Root is a brand worth checking out.

Unique Features and Pricing

When it comes to pricing, the range is as varied as the coop designs themselves. For a straightforward, easy-to-assemble option, a brand like OverEZ offers its large coop, suitable for up to 15 chickens, for around $2,300. On the other end of the spectrum, Roost & Root caters to very large flocks with models that can house up to 50 chickens, with prices stretching from about $1,400 for smaller setups to over $20,000 for their largest designs. This reflects the investment required for high-capacity, premium structures. For a truly tailored approach, companies like Cutest Coops focus on custom projects where the final cost depends entirely on the size, features, and finishes you choose, allowing you to create a coop that perfectly matches your budget and your flock's specific needs.

Carolina Coops: Premium, High-End Designs

Carolina Coops is another excellent choice for chicken keepers who want a spacious, heavy-duty coop they can walk right into. Their designs are robust, stylish, and built to withstand the elements for the long haul. They focus on creating functional, high-end coops that make flock management simple. Like Cutest Coops, they are a premium brand that prioritizes quality materials and smart design, ensuring your chickens have a safe and comfortable home. Their attention to detail and durable construction make them a favorite among serious backyard farmers.

The Chicken Coop Company: Built for Extra-Large Flocks

If your main priority is finding a coop that can hold a significant number of birds, The Chicken Coop Company delivers. They specialize in large and extra-large chicken coops, many of which come with attached outdoor runs. Their models are built for flocks of 10, 15, or even more chickens, providing ample space for everyone to roam. This brand is a great option if you’re looking for a straightforward, high-capacity solution that includes both indoor and outdoor space in one package, simplifying your setup process.

Available Coop Accessories

Once you’ve chosen the perfect coop, the right accessories can transform it from a simple shelter into a fully functional home that simplifies your daily routine. Think about additions that save you time and offer peace of mind, like an automatic coop door that keeps a consistent schedule for your flock and ensures they’re safely tucked in at night. Practical items like specialized feeders and waterers can reduce waste and keep supplies clean, while climate control systems can be a lifesaver in extreme weather. And don't forget the fun stuff! Decorative elements can add a personal touch to your setup. Exploring different coop accessories allows you to customize your space, making it a perfect fit for both you and your chickens.

How Much Does a Large Chicken Coop Cost?

Figuring out your budget is a huge step in finding the perfect home for your flock. The cost of a large chicken coop can vary widely, depending on materials, size, and special features. Think of it like buying a house—you can find a simple starter home or a fully custom dream home. Let's break down the typical price ranges so you know what to expect and can find a coop that fits both your flock’s needs and your wallet.

What Can You Get for Under $1,500?

If you're just starting or working with a tighter budget, you can definitely find a functional coop in this price range. These coops are typically smaller, made from lighter materials, and often come in a kit that you assemble yourself. While they get the job done, they may not have the longevity or robust predator-proofing of more expensive models. This is a great entry-level option, but keep in mind that as your flock grows or as the coop weathers over time, you might need to plan for an upgrade down the road.

What to Expect in the $1,500-$5,000 Range

This price range is often the sweet spot for many backyard chicken keepers. Here, you’ll find more durable materials, smarter designs, and coops that can comfortably house a larger number of birds (think 15 or more). You can expect better features like improved ventilation, easier-to-clean layouts, and more spacious runs. Coops in this category offer a fantastic balance of quality and affordability, providing a safe and comfortable home for your flock without requiring a top-tier investment. They are built to last longer and withstand the elements better than their budget-friendly counterparts.

Investing in a Premium Coop: $5,000 and Up

When you’re ready to invest in a forever home for your flock, premium custom coops are the gold standard. These are more than just shelters; they are thoughtfully designed structures built for the health of your chickens and your convenience. In this tier, you’ll find high-quality, Amish-built craftsmanship, walk-in designs for easy cleaning, and superior safety features. The best part is the ability to create a custom-built coop that perfectly matches your aesthetic and functional needs. This is a long-term investment that pays off in durability, ease of use, and peace of mind.

Don't Forget Assembly and Shipping Costs

Don’t forget to account for shipping and assembly when you’re calculating the total cost. The price you see online isn't always the final price. Shipping for a large, heavy item like a coop can add a significant amount to your bill. Assembly is another consideration. Many coops arrive in kits that you put together yourself, which can take anywhere from an hour to a full weekend. If you’d rather skip the hassle, some companies offer pre-built coops or white-glove delivery and setup for an additional fee, ensuring your coop is perfectly placed and ready for your flock.

Comparing Shipping Policies

Once you’ve picked a coop, the next step is getting it to your backyard, and shipping policies can vary dramatically. Some companies that sell pre-made kits might ship your coop in a box via a standard carrier within a day or two. This is fast, but it also means you’re responsible for the entire assembly. On the other hand, companies specializing in custom, pre-built structures have a different process. Since your coop is made to order, the timeline includes both build time and delivery. Delivery itself is often handled by specialized freight services to ensure your beautiful new coop arrives safely and fully intact. Always read the fine print to understand the full timeline, delivery method, and any associated costs so you know exactly what to expect on arrival day.

Financing Your Coop Purchase

A high-quality coop is a significant investment in your flock's safety and your own peace of mind, but the upfront cost can feel daunting. That’s where financing comes in. Many coop companies offer payment plans that allow you to get the perfect home for your chickens now and pay for it over time in manageable monthly installments. This can make it possible to choose a durable, long-lasting coop—like a custom-built model with all the features you want—instead of settling for a less expensive option that might need repairs or replacing in a few years. Exploring financing options can be a smart way to prioritize quality and get the coop of your dreams without breaking your budget.

Getting Your Coop Home: Assembly and Shipping Explained

Once you’ve found the perfect coop for your flock, the next big question is: how does it get from the workshop to your backyard? The logistics of shipping and assembly are just as important as the coop’s design, and a smooth process can make all the difference in your chicken-keeping experience. Some coops arrive as a pile of lumber with a set of instructions, while others are delivered fully assembled and ready for your flock to move right in.

Understanding the difference between a DIY kit and a pre-built coop is the first step. From there, you’ll want to know what to expect on delivery day and how to prepare your property for its arrival. A little planning goes a long way in preventing common headaches, like realizing the delivery truck can’t get down your driveway or discovering you’ve built too many nesting boxes after the fact. Let’s walk through what you need to know to ensure your coop’s arrival is exciting, not stressful.

Pre-Built vs. DIY: What's Right for You?

Deciding between a pre-built coop and a DIY project comes down to your time, skills, and priorities. Building a coop yourself can be a rewarding project, but it requires careful planning and construction know-how to ensure it’s safe and functional. A professionally built coop, on the other hand, is a long-term investment in the health and safety of your flock. These coops are designed by experts to be predator-safe, weather-resistant, and incredibly easy to clean. When you choose one of our customizable coops, you’re getting a home for your chickens that’s been thoughtfully engineered by people who truly understand what a flock needs to thrive.

What to Expect on Delivery Day

Shipping methods vary widely between coop companies. Some brands ship flat-packed kits via standard carriers, which means you’ll receive boxes of materials to assemble yourself. At Cutest Coops, we take a different approach. Our coops are handcrafted and can be delivered fully assembled or in large, easy-to-manage panels, depending on the model and your location. This white-glove service takes the guesswork out of the process. For those who need a coop right away, our In-Stock Coops are ready to ship quickly, so you can get your flock settled into their new home without a long wait. We’ll always provide clear communication and tracking so you know exactly when to expect your delivery.

Prepping Your Yard for the New Coop

Before your coop arrives, you’ll need to get your site ready. The most important step is ensuring you have a level, well-drained spot. A solid foundation prevents the structure from shifting over time and protects the wood from moisture damage. You should also clear a path for the delivery team, making sure there are no low-hanging branches or obstacles. Think about the coop’s placement in your yard—you’ll want it to be convenient for you to access for daily chores but also provide your chickens with adequate shade and protection from the elements. Planning your layout ahead of time using our Design Your Coop feature can help you visualize the final setup.

How to Avoid Common Assembly Headaches

If you opt for a coop that requires assembly, a few common mistakes can cause major frustration. One frequent error is building too many nesting boxes. While it seems helpful, chickens prefer to share a few cozy spots, and excess boxes just take up valuable roosting and floor space. Another issue is improper ventilation, which can lead to respiratory problems for your flock. When you work with experts on custom projects, you can avoid these pitfalls entirely. We’ve already figured out the ideal ratio of nesting boxes to hens and engineered superior airflow, so you can be confident your coop is perfectly designed from day one.

Mistakes to Avoid with a Large Chicken Coop

Keeping a large flock is incredibly rewarding, but it also magnifies potential problems. A small issue in a three-hen coop can become a major headache with 20 or more birds. Thinking ahead about these common challenges will help you create a happy, healthy environment for your flock and a low-stress experience for you. From managing waste to ensuring your coop stands the test of time, a little planning goes a long way. Let’s walk through the biggest hurdles and how to clear them with a well-chosen coop.

Why Overcrowding Is a Big Mistake

It’s tempting to squeeze in a few extra birds, but overcrowding is one of the fastest ways to create an unhealthy environment. When chickens don’t have enough personal space, they get stressed. This can lead to feather picking, bullying, and a higher risk of disease transmission. As one expert source puts it, "overcrowding chickens is likely to create a dirty, smelly coop filled with stressed hens that may be aggressive, unhealthy, and unkept." Always plan for more space than you think you’ll need. This gives your flock room to roam, forage, and establish a natural pecking order without conflict, resulting in a happier and more productive group of birds.

Always Double-Check Manufacturer Claims

When you're shopping for coops, you'll often see them advertised for a specific number of chickens, like "holds 15-20 birds." It’s best to treat these numbers as a suggestion, not a guarantee. Some manufacturers can be a bit optimistic with their capacity claims, and relying on them can lead you to accidentally overcrowd your flock. The most reliable approach is to do the math yourself. Grab the coop's dimensions and calculate the actual space to confirm it provides at least four square feet per bird inside. This simple step ensures you’re making a decision based on your flock’s real needs, not just a marketing claim. It puts you in control and guarantees your chickens will have the comfortable, stress-free home they deserve.

A Simple Plan for Managing Chicken Waste

More chickens mean more poop—it’s that simple. Without a solid plan, waste can quickly build up, leading to high ammonia levels that are dangerous for your flock’s respiratory systems. A great strategy is the deep litter method, where you continuously add fresh bedding over the old. One keeper notes they use horse bedding pellets that break down into sawdust, requiring a full clean-out just once a year. A walk-in coop makes this chore much easier, allowing you to simply use a wheelbarrow. Excellent ventilation is also key to managing waste by keeping the bedding dry and reducing odor.

Keeping Noise and Odors Under Control

Noise and odor are two of the most common concerns for chicken keepers, especially those with neighbors nearby. The best way to control odor is through the waste management practices we just covered: good ventilation and dry bedding. A clean coop is a pleasant-smelling coop. As for noise, while you can’t stop a rooster from crowing, you can reduce overall flock anxiety. Stressed, overcrowded, or bored chickens are often louder. By providing plenty of space, enrichment, and security from predators, you’ll have a more content and quieter flock. A well-built, solid coop can also help insulate some of the sound.

How to Pick a Coop Built for the Long Haul

With a large flock, your coop will see a lot of traffic and wear. A flimsy, poorly constructed coop just won’t hold up. Investing in a quality structure from the start saves you from the frustration and expense of constant repairs. A well-designed coop ensures your chickens are safe and comfortable through every season, protecting them from predators, drafts, and moisture. Look for sturdy, weather-resistant materials and smart design features that make your life easier. Your coop is a long-term investment in your flock’s health and your own peace of mind, so it’s worth choosing one built to last.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the single most important feature for a large flock coop? While security is non-negotiable, the two features that have the biggest impact on a large flock’s daily health are space and ventilation. They work together to prevent stress and respiratory illness, which can spread quickly in a crowded environment. Ample room gives every chicken a place to be, and excellent airflow keeps the air fresh and the bedding dry. If you get those two things right, you’ve solved for the most common problems before they can even start.

Is a walk-in coop really necessary for a big flock? While not strictly necessary, a walk-in coop will completely change your experience as a chicken keeper. With a large flock, daily chores like cleaning, feeding, and collecting eggs can be time-consuming. Being able to stand up and move around easily inside the coop makes those tasks faster and far more pleasant. It also makes it much easier to perform health checks on your birds. Think of it as an investment in your own time and comfort.

How can I prevent a large coop from becoming smelly? The key to controlling odor is keeping the coop dry. A combination of excellent ventilation and a good waste management plan, like the deep litter method, is the most effective strategy. Vents placed high in the coop allow warm, moist, ammonia-filled air to escape, while fresh air circulates. This constant air exchange prevents moisture buildup in the bedding, which is the primary cause of that unpleasant chicken coop smell.

I'm handy, so why shouldn't I just build my own coop from a kit? Building a coop can be a great project, but a professionally designed coop solves for problems you might not anticipate. Things like the precise placement of ventilation for optimal airflow without creating a draft, or the specific hardware needed to truly outsmart a raccoon, are details that experts have perfected over time. Investing in a well-crafted coop means you’re getting a structure that’s already been engineered for superior health, safety, and longevity, saving you from frustrating and costly fixes down the road.

How do I plan for the future if I think my flock might grow even larger? The best advice is to always buy a coop that’s a little bigger than what you currently need. Chicken math is real, and it’s much easier to give your flock room to grow than it is to upgrade or add a second coop later. When you’re calculating your space needs, add room for a few extra birds. This ensures that if you decide to expand your flock, their home is already prepared and you won’t have to worry about the stress of overcrowding.