A chicken spends her day outdoors and her night on the perch. This category brings together everything needed for that: the night coop, the run or outdoor area around it, the pop hole door that connects the two and the bedding on the floor. Below you can read how those parts fit together and in which subcategory to look further.
Four parts, one whole
Chicken housing only works well when the parts fit together. The coop is the place to sleep and lay: dry, draught-free, with perches and a nest box. The run gives space during the day to forage, dust-bathe and scratch. The pop hole determines when the birds can go from one to the other, and the floor covering keeps the coop dry and clean. If you choose one part too small or too weak, you soon notice it in wet droppings, restlessness or a visit from a fox.
How to choose
- Number of chickens now and later: a flock often grows. Two to four hens fit in a compact garden model; from five, you end up with a walk-in coop.
- Security: sturdy small-mesh wire, a solid roof or net over the run and a base that nothing can dig under.
- Maintenance: a removable droppings tray, a large door and smooth inside walls save work every week and give red mite fewer hiding places.
- Climate in the coop: ventilation high in the wall removes moisture without a draught on the perch.
- Material: wood insulates and looks natural, plastic and metal are quicker to clean. Both can work well if the finish is right.
Where this category takes you
For a small flock in the back garden, see chicken coops for 2 to 4 chickens; if you keep more, large coops for five or more hens are the logical step. Prefer coop and run as a set? See chicken coop with run. Separate runs, nets and enclosures are under chicken runs and enclosures. A door that opens and closes by itself is in automatic chicken coop doors, and for the floor and keeping things clean, go to bedding and coop hygiene.
Honest about the range
The range in this category is still being built up. For housing, what is mainly available now is a free-standing chicken run from Cucciolotta, plus a Euro-Netz poultry net and a Kerbl sliding door with rails for the pop hole. Separate coops will follow. In the meantime, the buying guides on the subpages help you decide what you need. For fitting out the coop, go to nest boxes and perches, and all other chicken supplies are in the overview for chicken keepers.
Frequently asked questions
Does a chicken coop always need a run?
Chickens need exercise and daylight during the day. If they do not roam freely in an enclosed garden, a run or fenced outdoor area is needed. Under a housing order during bird flu, they must also stay shielded indoors or under a solid roof.
Wood or plastic for a chicken coop?
Wood holds warmth and coolness better, but has seams where red mite hides. Plastic and metal are quicker to hose down. With any material, look for a well-finished interior.
Where is the best place to put the coop?
On a dry, level spot with shade in summer and shelter from the prevailing wind. Also consider the distance to the neighbours and any local council rules.