Coop & Equipment

Running electricity to a chicken coop can be a real headache. Whether your coop is too far from the house, you’re trying to keep your utility bills down, or you simply want a more self-sufficient, eco-friendly setup, powering your coop can feel like a major challenge. When I installed my first solar panel for chicken … Read more

After years of waking up at dawn to let my chickens out and rushing home before dark to secure them, I discovered automatic chicken coop doors—and they transformed my poultry-keeping experience. An automatic chicken coop door is more than a convenience; it’s a tool for better flock management, providing consistent predator protection while giving you … Read more

For 20 standard-size chickens, you need an 80-square-foot coop (8×10 or 8×12 dimensions) plus a minimum 200-square-foot run. This guide provides free chicken coop plans for 20 chickens with complete material lists, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips from years of hands-on experience. So, you’re ready to jump into the wonderful world of backyard chickens and … Read more

Last Updated: October 12, 2025 Last Reviewed for Accuracy: October 12, 2025 So, how much ventilation does a chicken coop need? Over my 8 years of raising chickens—during which I’ve designed and built three coops from scratch and managed flocks in climates ranging from cold Midwest winters to the humid heat of Lagos—I’ve learned the … Read more

Choosing the right home for your backyard chickens can feel like a big decision. After seven years of raising my own flock and managing both systems on my property, I’ve learned this firsthand. You want them to be safe, healthy, and happy, but you also need something that works for your space and lifestyle. That’s … Read more

Looking for creative and safe chicken coop decorations? Decorating your flock’s home is a fun project, but it’s about more than just looks. The health and safety of your chickens should always come first. This guide will walk you through 13 creative and, most importantly, safe chicken coop decorating ideas that will keep your feathered … Read more

Keeping a chicken coop clean, dry, and smelling fresh is a top priority for any backyard chicken keeper, especially in humid climates. You’ve likely heard that using barn lime in chicken coop areas can help. But with different types of lime available at the farm supply store, it’s absolutely crucial to know which one is … Read more

If you’re thinking about raising backyard chickens, you’ve probably seen the charming and simple A-frame chicken coop. This comprehensive guide is based on our own hands-on experience building and using an A-frame chicken coop for our flock. We’ll break down everything you need to know, from whether this design is right for you to how … Read more

Based on years of experience, most flock losses come from inadequate predator protection. Don’t learn the expensive way. The heartbreak of finding a coop breached is something every chicken keeper fears. This comprehensive guide will transform your coop into a fortress, providing you with the knowledge and tools to build a truly predator-proof chicken coop. … Read more

Dust bathing is one of the most fascinating behaviors I’ve witnessed in my years of keeping chickens. The first time I saw my hens enthusiastically rolling in what looked like a dirt tornado, I thought something was wrong — until I realized they were having the time of their lives. This natural behavior is essential … Read more