Phase 1 of our chicken coop upgrade has been completed. JoAnne, Emilie and I spent this past Saturday working on it. Once we're completely done the cage should be (hopefully) critter proof, i.e. safe from raccoons, dogs etc. Although we've not had a problem that doesn't mean it can't/won't happen. Also, by securing it as we're doing we can now leave the chickens out over night. Up till now we've put them away, in their crate, each night and take them out each morning. More of a hassle than anything else but the chickens have become friendly as a result and used to being handled.
Phase 1 consisted of fencing in the front, building a gate and securing the top (just under the hanging rabbit cages). Phase 2 will be to reinforce the sides with chicken wire and then install new lattice panels for added strength and aesthetics. Phase 3 will be to connect their crate to the back of the coop. This will give them a secure place to roost at night, one that's somewhat protected from the elements, especially when the cold weather comes. Phase 4 will be tweaks, i.e. new nest boxes and a new roost for the chickens and we're thinking of framing the top half (front), similar to the bottom to protect the rabbits from critters too.
Ideally, when it's all said and done it will be very secure and we'll be able to winterize it, which will allow us to leave the rabbit's and chickens out all winter.
Updated pictures to follow as each phase is completed so contain your excitement and be patient.
1 comment:
I enjoyed reading about your chicken coop upgrades. I've linked to your post at my site, in a post on chicken coops. I hope you'll stop by and visit!
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