Find Hen House Plans and Chicken Coop Ideas
Predator Protection
The coop needs to provide protection from every side. Be sure all the openings are protected with 15mm square wire mesh so no predators can reach inside the chicken coop.
Digging Protection
You need to protect the chickens from predators digging underneath the chicken coop. This includes foxes and rats. Rats are especially attracted to the coop because of the chicken droppings. Just bury wire mesh fencing about 30cm below the surface.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is quite important when learning how to make a chicken coop. This will help prevent respiratory diseases. Be sure the ventilation is not directly in the flow of air. Chickens are ok with cold weather however; cold wind may be too much for them.
Roosting Poles
This is where the chickens will sleep at night. Be sure they have proper spacing so that the chickens are not crowding each other.
Ease of Cleaning
The easier it is to clean the less time and hassle for you. For instance place a plastic tray under each roosting pole.
Nesting Boxes
Provide at least 1 nest box for every 4 or 5 birds. The nest box should be in a dark corner of the chicken coop to help encourage your chickens to lay eggs. The nest boxes should be lower than the roosting poles while being a little bit off the ground.
Floor Space
You should provide 4 square feet per bird so that they have enough room to roam around while inside the chicken coop.
Waterer and Feeder
For starters make sure you have them. They should be placed a height that allows the chickens to eat comfortably.
There are of course plenty more chicken coop ideas out there but unless you have plenty of time your best bet is to consider investing in a good set of hen house plans. Bill Keene created a complete guide on how to make a chicken coop. Your investment is 100% refundable if your not completely happy.