Chicken Coops

 Prepping for good times and SHTF with Chicken Coops is a no brainer for a homesteader, it's important to always be prepared for both the good and the bad times. That's why one essential aspect of any homestead is having a chicken coop. Not only do chickens provide fresh eggs and meat, but they also help with pest control and fertilizing your garden. Fresh chicken eggs are so much better for you than store bought ones and raising chickens can be a fun and rewarding experience.

But before you dive into building your own chicken coop, it's important to do some research and planning. First, think about the size of your homestead and how many chickens you want to have. A general rule is to have 4 square feet per bird in the coop and 8-10 square feet per bird in the outside area. You also need to consider what type of chickens you want - some are better for eggs, while others are better for meat.

Next, decide on the location for your chicken coop. It should be in an area that provides adequate sunlight, shade, and protection from predators. It's also important to have easy access for cleaning and gathering

When it comes to building a chicken coop, there are a few things to consider. First, you'll need to determine how many chickens you want to have and how much space they will need. It's recommended to give each chicken at least 4 square feet of space inside the coop, as well as an outdoor run area of at least 10 square feet per chicken. On the other hand, a prepper can purchase a pre fabricated chicken coop from the Chicken Coop Company , which can hold up to 4-6 chickens comfortably. 

Supplies you need to run a chicken coop include chicken feeders, waterers, nesting boxes, and roosting poles. The coop should also have good ventilation to prevent any respiratory issues for the chickens. Hay is also important for keeping the chickens warm during colder months. It's also a good idea to have a designated area in the coop for storing supplies like feed and bedding. 

The good news is that chickens will eat anything, from kitchen scraps to bugs and worms in the yard. Remember that chickens evolved from dinosaurs but are smaller.  However, it's important to also provide them with a balanced diet of commercial chicken feed. This will ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and egg production.  Chicken poop can then be added to soil as fertilizer for your Prepper Garden. 

When designing your coop, it's important to keep in mind the size and number of chickens you plan on keeping. Each chicken should have at least 3-4 square feet of space inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in the outdoor run area. This will prevent overcrowding and allow for healthy movement and exercise for the chickens.

Additionally, consider adding some features to make your chicken's living space more comfortable. For example, waterers with nipples can help prevent water from spilling or getting contaminated by dirt or droppings. Nesting boxes provide a safe and private place for hens to lay their eggs, while roosting poles give them a place to perch at night.

Ensuring proper ventilation is crucial for the

When it comes to cleaning the coop, it's recommended to do a deep clean every 2-3 months and spot clean as needed. This involves removing all bedding and disinfecting the coop with a mixture of water and white vinegar. It's also important to regularly check for any potential predators such as raccoons or foxes, and reinforce the coop accordingly. 

In addition, chickens are social creatures and require companionship, so it's best to keep at least two chickens together. When introducing new chickens to the flock, it's important to do so gradually and monitor for any signs of aggression or bullying. 

Lastly, don't forget to give your feathered friends plenty of space to roam and peck. Chickens love to scratch and forage for insects, seeds, and plants. Providing them with a designated outdoor area or free-ranging in a safe enclosure can greatly improve their overall well-being.

Remember, taking care of chickens is not just about having fresh eggs on hand. It's also an opportunity to connect with nature and provide these wonderful creatures with a happy and healthy home. So keep these tips in mind as you continue your journey as a chicken owner!