Many chicken keepers have a similar story: they start with a cheap, flat-pack coop, only to find it falling apart after a single season. The thin wood warps, the flimsy wire tears, and the simple latch is no match for a determined raccoon. It’s a frustrating, costly, and sometimes heartbreaking lesson to learn. A coop should be a long-term investment, not a temporary fix. To avoid these common pitfalls, you need to know how to spot a well-built structure from the start. This guide is designed to be your roadmap, pointing out the critical differences between a bargain coop and a durable one. We’ll cover the non-negotiable features that define quality chicken coops, helping you make a choice that protects your flock and saves you from future headaches.
Key Takeaways
- Master the Basics Before Adding Extras: Your flock's health and safety depend on four core elements: impenetrable security, smart ventilation, adequate space, and solid construction. Nail these fundamentals first to create a coop that truly protects your birds.
- Choose Features That Make Your Life Easier: A well-designed coop works for you, not against you. Look for practical upgrades like walk-in access, built-in storage, and automated doors to streamline your chores and give you more time to simply enjoy your flock.
- Invest in Quality for Lasting Value: A cheap coop often costs more in the long run through repairs and stress. Choosing a durable, well-built structure is an investment in your flock's safety and your own peace of mind, ensuring you have a coop that lasts for years.
What Defines a High-Quality Chicken Coop?
When you’re ready to bring home a flock of chickens, choosing their coop is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It’s more than just a house; it’s a sanctuary that needs to keep your hens safe, healthy, and comfortable. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to tell a well-built coop from one that will fall apart after a season. A high-quality coop is an investment in your flock’s well-being and your own peace of mind.
The best coops are designed with a chicken’s needs at the forefront. This means they are built to be a fortress against predators, a haven from harsh weather, and a clean, comfortable space for your hens to rest and lay their eggs. It all comes down to four key pillars: safety, ventilation, space, and durable construction. Getting these right from the start saves you from costly repairs, stressful vet visits, and the heartache of losing a bird. Let’s walk through exactly what to look for in each of these areas so you can choose a coop with confidence.
Look for These Key Safety Features
Your number one job as a chicken keeper is to protect your flock from predators. A high-quality coop is your first line of defense. Raccoons, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs can be incredibly persistent, so the coop needs to be built like a tiny fortress. Look for solid wood construction and sturdy latches that can’t be easily flipped open by clever paws. All windows and ventilation openings should be covered with ½-inch hardware cloth, not flimsy chicken wire, which can be torn apart. A secure coop gives you peace of mind, knowing your girls are tucked in safely every night.
Ensure Proper Ventilation and Light
Good airflow is non-negotiable for a healthy coop. Chickens produce a lot of moisture and ammonia, and without proper ventilation, that damp, stale air can lead to serious respiratory problems. A well-designed coop will have vents located high up, near the roofline. This allows warm, moist air to escape without creating a cold draft on your roosting hens below. Ample natural light from windows is also crucial. It helps regulate their laying cycles and keeps the coop from feeling like a damp cave, making it a much more pleasant place for your flock to call home.
Give Your Hens Enough Space to Thrive
Overcrowding is a major source of stress for chickens, leading to pecking, bullying, and the spread of disease. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least four square feet of indoor coop space per standard-sized bird. And trust me, "chicken math" is a real thing—you’ll likely end up with more hens than you originally planned! It’s always wise to buy a slightly larger coop than you think you need. Giving your flock enough room to stretch their wings, dust bathe, and find their own spot on the roost is essential for a happy, harmonious group of hens.
Demand Weather-Resistant Construction
Your coop will be outside 24/7, so it needs to be tough enough to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Look for coops built with high-quality, solid wood and topped with a durable, waterproof roof that can stand up to rain and snow. The hardware, like hinges and screws, should be galvanized or stainless steel to prevent rust. A well-built, weather-resistant structure will not only keep your chickens warm and dry but will also last for years, making it a much better long-term investment. When you design your own coop, you can ensure it’s built to withstand your specific climate.
Premium Features That Are Worth the Investment
While any four walls and a roof can technically house a chicken, a truly great coop does more than just provide basic shelter. It creates a safe, healthy, and enriching environment for your flock while making your life as a chicken keeper significantly easier. When you’re shopping for a coop, it’s easy to get sticker shock and focus only on the initial price. But I encourage you to think about certain features as long-term investments. These aren't just fancy add-ons; they are smart, practical upgrades that pay you back every single day with peace of mind, saved time, and happier, healthier hens.
Investing in a well-designed coop with premium features means you’re setting yourself and your flock up for success from day one. Imagine spending less time worrying about predators, struggling with back-breaking cleaning routines, or juggling supplies in the rain. Instead, you can focus on the best parts of raising chickens: collecting warm, fresh eggs, watching your flock happily forage, and simply enjoying your backyard companions. From robust security measures that let you sleep soundly to clever, time-saving designs that give you your weekends back, these are the features that can completely transform your chicken-keeping experience for the better. They turn a daily chore list into a delightful hobby.
Invest in Predator-Proofing
Your flock’s safety is the number one priority, and a predator-proof coop is non-negotiable. Raccoons, hawks, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs can pose a serious threat. True predator-proofing goes beyond a simple latch. Look for coops built with heavy-gauge hardware cloth over all windows and ventilation openings—not flimsy chicken wire, which raccoons can easily tear. All doors, including nesting box lids, should have complex, two-step latches that clever paws can’t open. Solid construction with no gaps or weak points is essential to ensure your chickens are tucked in safe and sound every night. Investing in customizable coops with built-in security gives you invaluable peace of mind.
Simplify Cleaning with Smart Designs
Let’s be honest: cleaning the coop is probably not your favorite chore. But a smart design can make it a quick and painless task. A walk-in coop is a game-changer, saving your back and knees from crouching in a tiny space. Look for features like smooth, non-porous flooring that’s easy to scrape and sanitize. Removable roosting bars and easy-to-access nesting boxes also make deep cleaning much more manageable. When you design your own coop, you can prioritize these features to create a space that stays cleaner longer and requires far less elbow grease from you. A hygienic coop is crucial for preventing illness and keeping your flock healthy.
Integrate Practical Storage Solutions
Chickens come with a lot of gear: bulky bags of feed, bales of bedding, cleaning tools, and health supplies. A coop with an integrated storage area is an incredible feature that keeps everything you need in one convenient, organized place. A built-in storage room or cabinet protects your supplies from rain, snow, and pests like rodents. It also means no more hauling heavy feed bags from the garage every morning. Having everything right where you need it streamlines your daily chores and keeps your backyard looking tidy. Many of our custom projects include beautiful and functional storage solutions tailored to your needs.
Consider Automated Doors and Features
An automatic chicken coop door is one of the best investments you can make for both convenience and security. These doors can be programmed to open at sunrise and close at sunset, ensuring your flock is safely inside before nocturnal predators start their rounds. This means you don’t have to rush home to lock up the coop, and you can even sleep in a little later. Beyond automated doors, consider other helpful coop accessories like an electrical package. This allows you to add a light for easier evening check-ins or a heated waterer and roosts to help your flock through frigid winters, making daily care easier in any season.
What Do Chicken Coops Actually Cost?
When you start shopping for a chicken coop, you’ll quickly see that prices are all over the map. The cost can range from a couple hundred dollars for a basic kit to several thousand for a custom-built structure that’s practically a tiny home for your flock. Think of it like buying a car—you can get a simple, no-frills model that gets the job done, or you can invest in a luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles for safety and comfort.
The price of a coop is a direct reflection of its size, materials, craftsmanship, and features. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s important to remember that a coop is an investment in the health and safety of your chickens. A well-built coop will protect them from predators and the elements, make your daily chores easier, and last for years to come. Let’s break down the different price tiers so you know what to expect.
Entry-Level Coops
You can find entry-level chicken coops for anywhere between $200 and $500. These are typically small, pre-fabricated kits you’d find at a big-box store or online retailer. They’re a budget-friendly way to get started, but they often come with trade-offs. The materials are usually thinner wood or plastic, and the hardware might not stand up to a determined predator or harsh weather. While the low initial cost is appealing, you might find yourself spending more in the long run on repairs, upgrades, or even a full replacement after just a season or two.
Mid-Range Options
Most chicken coops fall into the mid-range category, costing between $300 and $2,000. In this tier, you’ll find more substantial pre-built coops and higher-quality kits. The materials are generally more durable, offering better protection and longevity. These coops often have more thoughtful designs, with features like more accessible nesting boxes, better ventilation, and more spacious runs. For many backyard chicken keepers, a mid-range coop offers a good balance of quality and affordability. It’s a solid step up from entry-level options and provides a safer, more comfortable home for your flock without requiring a top-tier budget.
Premium and Custom Builds
For those who want the absolute best for their flock, premium and custom-built coops are the way to go. These can range from $2,000 to $4,000 and beyond, depending on the level of customization. This investment gets you superior, handcrafted construction using high-quality, weather-resistant materials. Features often include walk-in designs for easy cleaning, integrated storage for feed and supplies, and exceptional ventilation systems. The biggest advantage is the ability to design a coop that perfectly fits your space, flock size, and personal style. It’s a long-term investment that provides peace of mind, ultimate safety, and a beautiful addition to your backyard.
What Factors Influence the Price?
Several key factors determine the final cost of a chicken coop. The most obvious is size—a coop for six hens will naturally cost less than one built for twenty. The quality of materials also plays a huge role; a coop made from solid, rot-resistant wood will be more expensive than one made from thin plywood. Features and custom accessories like automated doors, electrical packages, and decorative hardware also add to the price. Finally, consider the construction. A DIY kit will cost less upfront than a fully assembled, handcrafted coop, but a professionally built structure ensures every joint is secure and every detail is perfect.
Smart Designs for Happy, Healthy Hens
A chicken coop is more than just a shelter; it’s your flock’s home. The small details in its design have a huge impact on their daily health and happiness. When chickens feel safe, comfortable, and have space to engage in their natural behaviors, they thrive. This means more delicious eggs and fewer health problems for you to worry about. A thoughtfully designed coop doesn't just benefit the birds—it also makes your job as a chicken keeper much easier and more enjoyable. From the placement of the roosts to the airflow, every element plays a part in creating a healthy environment. When you’re shopping for a coop, looking past the basic structure to see these smart design features is the key to investing in a home your flock will flourish in for years to come. It’s about creating a space that works with a chicken’s instincts, not against them.
Get the Nesting Boxes Just Right
A hen needs a nesting box that feels private, safe, and comfortable—it’s where she does her most important work, after all. One of the biggest signs of a cheaply made coop is flimsy nesting boxes with no support underneath. Over time, these can sag or even break, which is stressful for your hens and risky for their eggs. A well-built coop will have sturdy, reinforced nesting boxes that give your girls the secure space they need to lay. This small detail makes a world of difference in their comfort and ensures the structure holds up for the long haul. When you design your own coop, paying attention to the construction of the nesting boxes is a simple way to prioritize your flock’s well-being.
Provide the Perfect Roosts
Chickens naturally seek high ground to sleep, a behavior that keeps them safe from predators in the wild. A coop needs to provide comfortable roosting bars for them to settle in for the night. The ideal roost is a flat, wide bar (like a 2x4 with the wide side up) that allows them to cover their feet with their bodies in the winter, preventing frostbite. The placement is also key—roosts should be higher than the nesting boxes to discourage sleeping (and pooping) where they lay. For those in colder climates, features like heated roosts can be a game-changer, offering extra warmth on frigid nights and ensuring your flock stays cozy and healthy through the winter.
Plan for Ample Run Space
A cramped chicken is a stressed chicken. Your flock needs plenty of outdoor space to stretch their legs, forage for bugs, and take dust baths. A good guideline is to provide at least 10 square feet of run space per chicken, but honestly, more is always better. Overcrowding can lead to boredom, feather-pecking, and a faster buildup of waste, which can cause health issues. A spacious, secure run attached to the coop gives them the freedom to roam safely. When planning your setup, consider customizable coops that integrate a generous run, ensuring your birds have all the room they need to live their best chicken lives.
Optimize Your Ventilation System
Proper ventilation is probably the single most important feature for a healthy coop, yet it’s often done poorly. The goal is to allow moist air and ammonia fumes to escape without creating a cold draft on your roosting chickens. The best way to achieve this is with vents placed high up in the coop, near the roofline. This allows warm, humid air to rise and exit, while fresh air circulates without blowing directly on your flock. Many coops have low vents that create dangerous drafts in the winter and can let rain or snow in. Excellent airflow keeps the coop dry, reduces the risk of respiratory illness, and prevents frostbite.
Must-Have Customization Options
Once you’ve found a coop with a solid foundation of safety and quality, the real fun begins. Customizing your coop is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating a functional, comfortable, and efficient home for your flock that perfectly suits your lifestyle and environment. Think of it as tailoring a suit—the right fit makes all the difference. Whether you live in a place with harsh winters, have a busy schedule that makes morning chores a challenge, or simply want to make your chicken-keeping life a little easier, the right add-ons can be game-changers.
From practical storage solutions that keep your feed secure to automated doors that act as a personal chicken butler, these features are designed to solve common problems for flock owners. When you design your own coop, you have the power to build a structure that addresses your specific needs from day one. This means less time worrying about your hens’ safety and comfort and more time enjoying the delightful chaos they bring to your backyard. Let’s explore some of the most valuable customizations that can transform a good coop into the perfect coop.
Heating for Cold Climates
If you live in an area where temperatures plummet, keeping your flock warm and safe is a top priority. While chickens are surprisingly hardy, a little extra support during a deep freeze goes a long way in preventing frostbite and stress. Adding an electrical package to your coop opens up a world of possibilities for winter care. You can install thermostatically controlled heaters, heated waterers, or even heated roosting bars to give your hens a cozy place to rest. These thoughtful additions ensure your chickens remain comfortable and healthy, even when the weather outside is frightful.
Automated Doors for Convenience and Safety
An automatic chicken coop door is one of the best investments you can make for both your peace of mind and your flock’s security. It operates on a timer or a light sensor, letting your chickens out at dawn and securing them safely inside at dusk. This means no more rushing home to beat nightfall or waking up at the crack of dawn to open the coop. More importantly, it ensures your flock is consistently protected from nocturnal predators like raccoons and foxes. It’s a simple upgrade from our list of coop accessories that adds immense convenience and safety to your daily routine.
Upgraded Ventilation Systems
Proper airflow is absolutely critical for a healthy coop environment. Good ventilation whisks away moisture and ammonia, preventing respiratory illnesses and keeping the coop fresh. While all quality coops should have adequate ventilation, you might consider upgrades depending on your climate. In hot and humid regions, for example, requesting high gable vents can significantly improve air circulation and keep your flock cool. Ensuring your coop has a robust ventilation system is a proactive step toward maintaining your flock’s health and happiness year-round.
Practical Storage Add-ons
A well-organized coop is a well-managed coop. Integrating storage into your coop’s design is a brilliant way to keep feed, bedding, and cleaning supplies neat, tidy, and close at hand. Many of our customizable coops can be built with attached storage rooms or sheds, giving you a dedicated space that’s both secure and weatherproof. This not only simplifies your chores but also protects your supplies from pests and moisture. Having everything you need in one place makes daily upkeep faster and far more enjoyable.
Advanced Security Features
Protecting your flock from predators is a chicken keeper’s number one job. While a sturdy build is the first line of defense, advanced security features provide an extra layer of protection. This includes using predator-proof hardware cloth on all windows and vents instead of flimsy chicken wire, which raccoons can easily tear. It also means installing complex, two-step latches that clever predators can’t figure out. When you invest in a coop, look for these details. They are the small things that make a huge difference in keeping your beloved chickens safe from harm.
Why a Handcrafted Coop Makes All the Difference
When you’re investing in a home for your flock, the difference between a mass-produced kit and a handcrafted coop is night and day. A handcrafted coop is more than just a structure; it's a thoughtfully designed and meticulously built home that prioritizes your chickens' safety, health, and comfort. Unlike flimsy, one-size-fits-all options, these coops are constructed by skilled artisans who understand the nuances of what makes a chicken coop truly functional and durable. They use high-quality materials that are chosen to withstand the elements and deter predators, ensuring your coop lasts for years, not just a season.
This level of care translates into a safer, healthier environment for your hens. You’ll find smarter designs for ventilation, easier cleaning access, and more secure latches—details that make a huge difference in your day-to-day routine and your flock’s well-being. A handcrafted coop is an investment in peace of mind, knowing your beloved pets are protected in a sturdy, reliable, and beautiful structure that adds charm to your backyard instead of being an eyesore. It’s about choosing quality that you can see and feel, and that your chickens will appreciate every day.
What Makes Cutest Coops Stand Out
We believe a chicken coop should be both beautiful and functional—a true extension of your home and garden. That’s why our customizable coops are designed with an eye for style without ever compromising on the practical needs of a thriving flock. We focus on creating luxury chicken coops that offer the best of both worlds: superior safety features and high-end aesthetics. From the overall design to the smallest hardware details, every element is chosen to provide a safe, comfortable, and incredibly stylish home for your chickens.
Our Commitment to Quality Construction
At the heart of every Cutest Coop is an unwavering commitment to quality. Our coops are Amish-built, which means they are constructed with generations of woodworking expertise and an incredible attention to detail. We use high-quality, durable materials to ensure every coop is built to last, standing strong against weather and potential predators. This dedication to superior craftsmanship means you get a coop that isn’t just beautiful on day one, but remains a safe and sturdy home for your flock for many years to come.
Design Your Dream Coop with Us
Your flock is unique, and your coop should be too. We put the design power in your hands, allowing you to create a coop that perfectly matches your vision and your chickens' needs. You can design your chicken coop from the ground up, choosing from a wide array of styles, sizes, and colors for the siding, trim, and roof. Whether you need a specific layout, extra storage, or a particular aesthetic to match your home, we work with you to build a truly custom coop that is as individual as you are.
How to Choose the Perfect Coop for Your Flock
Picking the right coop can feel like a huge decision, but it really comes down to a few key factors: your flock, your climate, and your long-term goals. A great coop is more than just a house; it’s a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment that makes your life as a chicken keeper easier. By thinking through your specific needs ahead of time, you can find a coop that will keep your hens happy for years to come and save you from the headache of a premature upgrade. Let’s walk through exactly what you should be looking for.
Match the Coop Size to Your Flock's Needs
When it comes to coops, size definitely matters. It's crucial to match the size of the coop to the number of chickens you have—and the number you plan to have in the future. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least two to four square feet of indoor space per standard-sized chicken and about eight to ten square feet in the run. Overcrowding can lead to stress, pecking, and health issues, so it’s always better to go a little bigger. Think about your flock’s future, too. If you plan on adding more hens next year, investing in a larger coop now will be much easier than trying to upgrade later. Our customizable coops can be tailored to fit your flock perfectly, whether you're starting with three hens or thirty.
Account for Your Local Climate
Your local weather plays a huge role in the ideal coop design. If you live somewhere with harsh winters, you’ll need a coop with excellent insulation and draft-free construction to keep your flock warm. For those in hotter regions, superior ventilation is non-negotiable to prevent overheating. Look for features like adjustable windows, vents, and a design that promotes airflow. The right coop should provide adequate ventilation in warmer months and solid protection during colder seasons. When you design your own coop with us, you can add features specifically suited to your climate, ensuring your chickens are comfortable all year round.
How to Spot a Well-Built Coop
Not all coops are created equal. A well-built coop is an investment in your flock’s safety and your own peace of mind. When you’re shopping, look for sturdy construction using high-quality lumber, not flimsy plywood. Check the hardware—are the latches, hinges, and locks robust and predator-proof? A quality coop should feel solid and secure. Pay attention to the roofing material, ensuring it’s durable and waterproof. It’s also important to find a design with good ventilation and easy access for cleaning. These are the details that separate a coop that lasts a few seasons from one that lasts a lifetime.
Your Essential Features Checklist
Before you make a final decision, run through a checklist of essential features. Every good coop needs comfortable nesting boxes (plan for one box for every three to four hens) and sturdy roosting bars for your chickens to sleep on at night. A secure, attached run is also critical to give your flock safe outdoor space. And for your own sake, make sure the coop is easy to clean. Look for large access doors, and consider features like a droppings board or litter tray. You can also add helpful coop accessories like automated doors and integrated feed storage to make your daily chores even simpler.
Keeping Your Coop in Top Shape
Once you’ve invested in a beautiful, high-quality coop, you’ll want to keep it looking and functioning its best for years to come. Proper maintenance isn't just about aesthetics; it's the key to keeping your flock healthy, happy, and safe. A clean coop minimizes the risk of pests, parasites, and diseases that can thrive in a dirty environment, creating a comfortable home your chickens will love. Think of it like caring for your own home—a little bit of regular upkeep goes a long way in preventing bigger problems down the road.
By breaking down the tasks into a simple daily, seasonal, and long-term routine, you can make coop care a manageable and even enjoyable part of your chicken-keeping journey. This consistent care protects your investment and ensures your coop remains a sturdy, safe haven for your feathered family through every season. Starting with a coop designed for easy cleaning, like one with walk-in access or smart storage solutions, gives you a huge head start. We'll walk through the essential steps to maintain your coop, from quick daily tasks to thorough seasonal deep cleans, so you can spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your flock.
Your Daily Cleaning Routine
A few minutes each day is all it takes to keep your coop fresh and your chickens healthy. The most important daily task is to scoop the droppings from under the roosting bars and any obvious spots in the run. This simple step prevents ammonia buildup, which can cause respiratory issues for your flock, and keeps flies at bay. While you're there, quickly check their food and water to make sure they are clean and full. Making this part of your morning or evening routine turns a big chore into a small, manageable habit.
Essential Seasonal Maintenance
A few times a year, it’s time for a deep clean. I like to do this with the changing seasons—in the spring to air things out and in the fall to prepare for winter. This involves removing everything from the coop: bedding, feeders, waterers, and even removable roosts. Give the entire interior a good scrub-down with a poultry-safe cleaner. This is also the perfect time to inspect the coop for any wear and tear. Check for loose hardware, signs of pests, or areas that might need a touch-up to maintain its weather resistance. A thorough chicken coop cleaning ensures a healthy reset for your flock.
How to Make Your Coop Last for Years
The secret to a long-lasting coop starts with its design. Features that make cleaning easier will encourage you to do it more often, which is the best way to preserve the structure. For example, a walk-in coop saves your back, and removable dropping boards can make daily scooping take seconds. When you design your own coop, think about how each feature will impact your maintenance routine. High-quality, weather-resistant materials are essential, but a smart layout that gives you easy access to every corner is what truly ensures your coop will stand the test of time and stay in beautiful condition.
Solving Common Coop Problems
Most common coop issues—like pests, mold, or strong odors—can be traced back to moisture and ventilation. The best defense is a good offense. Keep the bedding deep and dry, turning it regularly to prevent it from compacting and holding moisture. Ensure your coop’s ventilation is working properly and isn't blocked, allowing fresh air to circulate without creating a draft on your roosting hens. Many problems can be avoided by adding smart coop accessories like covered feeders to keep food dry or storage solutions that keep extra bedding clean and accessible. A dry, well-ventilated coop is a healthy coop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I figure out the right size coop for my flock? The best advice I can give is to buy a coop that’s slightly larger than you think you need. "Chicken math" is a real phenomenon, and most people end up with more hens than they originally planned! A good starting point is to ensure at least four square feet of indoor space per bird. Giving your flock a little extra room helps prevent stress and bullying, leading to a happier, healthier group of hens and saving you from having to upgrade your coop in a year or two.
Why should I invest in a more expensive coop when cheaper kits are available? Think of a coop as a long-term investment in your flock’s safety and your own peace of mind. While a cheap kit might seem like a good deal upfront, it often comes with hidden costs. Flimsy materials can lead to frequent repairs, security vulnerabilities can result in heartbreaking predator attacks, and poor design can make cleaning a miserable chore. A well-built, handcrafted coop is designed to last for years, providing superior protection and making your daily tasks much easier.
What's the single most important feature for a beginner to look for? If I had to pick just one thing, it would be a design that makes cleaning easy. A walk-in coop is an absolute game-changer because it saves your back and knees from the strain of crouching and scrubbing. When cleaning is simple, you’re more likely to do it consistently, which is the number one way to prevent pests and disease. A clean coop is a healthy coop, so a design that simplifies maintenance is invaluable.
Do I really need an automatic door? While it’s not a strict necessity, an automatic door is one of the best upgrades you can make for your convenience and your flock's safety. It gives you the freedom to sleep in a little later and not have to rush home at dusk to lock up the hens. More importantly, it ensures your flock is securely tucked away every single night, protecting them from nocturnal predators without you ever having to worry if you forgot.
How can I be sure a coop is truly predator-proof? True predator-proofing is all in the details. Look past the basic structure and inspect the materials closely. All windows and vents should be covered with ½-inch hardware cloth, which is a sturdy wire mesh that raccoons can't tear through like they can with flimsy chicken wire. Also, check the latches on all doors and nesting boxes. They should be complex, two-step locks that a clever paw can’t easily flip open.