There has been a surge in interest over recent years in the keeping of chickens in Australian backyards, as families discover the joys (and economic benefits) of eggs, a more environmentally friendly way of living, and even a little company in the birds. Nevertheless, one of the best choices you can make as a chicken keeper is to find the perfect place in which your flock will live. There are numerous chicken house options available, and understanding how to select the right one can save you some time, not to mention money, and ensure your ladies are happy and healthy.
Why the Right Chicken House Matters
The house of your chicken is not merely its dwelling place but the place in which it sleeps, eats, lays eggs, and feels unsafe. Proper housing keeps the chickens far away from the predators, bad weather and unhealthy conditions that might lead to being unhealthy due to overcrowding or inadequate ventilation.
When well selected, chicken houses can make chicken keeping in the backyard quite convenient, so you and your birds will have a good time.
Key Features to Look For
In making a similarity comparison between chicken houses, the following important characteristics should be put into consideration:
- Footprint and Floor Area
The hens require enough space to roost, lay, and move freely. One blanket rule is at least 0.3 to 0.4 square metres per bird in the coop and 0.9 to 1.2 square metres per bird in the run. Recall that poor housing causes stress, feather pecking, and poor production of eggs. - Ventilation
It is important to have fresh air in order to avoid moisture accumulation and ammonia deposition as a result of droppings. Check houses that have properly positioned vents such that the air flows without strong drafts on the birds. - Nesting Boxes
Nesting boxes prompt laying of eggs in a single clean and safe point. One box of straw or shavings for three or four hens will be sufficient when used to prevent eggs from being jolted. - Roosting Bars
Chickens tend to roost off the ground during the nighttime. Strong and rounded perches will provide them with a decent place to sleep as well as make them feel safe. - Predator-Proof Design
To name a few, backyard hens can be victims to dogs and cats, foxes, and snakes. Make sure that the house is well-locked with strong locks and without a hole through which the predator can fit.
Different Styles of Chicken Houses
Chicken houses are designed differently, and this means that you can choose the best setup that suits the size of the chicken population that you have and the size of your backyard:
- Traditional Coops: Standard structures that are stationary housing.
- Hen Trax: Moveable shelters that you can take to fresh grass in the yard with chickens.
- Walk-In Coops: Bigger and easier to clean, feed, and collect the eggs.
There are several suppliers who are designing chicken coops in Australia with requirements customised to suit local climatic conditions and backyards. From the small-sized design that fits a suburban block to the larger options that can be placed in a semi-rural property, there is an option that can fit any chicken keeper.
It is helpful to read tips for keeping your backyard chickens safe and healthy for new keepers.
Final Thoughts
The most efficient chicken house is a place to choose considering the safety, comfort, and practicality. A well-ventilated structure with sufficient space and convenience in keeping the structure stress-free is the best approach to guarantee the healthy and luxurious lives of your chickens. Nowadays, there are too many high-quality options not to start or extend family flocks to Australian families with confidence. Spending the money on the proper house initially will give you the benefits of chicken keeping in full, with fresh production, sustainable life, and the basic enjoyment of making your hens happy. You can enjoy chicken farming when you choose the right house for it.
