How to make a paddock for chickens from a grid. Choosing the right fence for your chicken coop, paddock, orchard. What if the rats come through the floors into the chicken coops. Rodent protection

A chicken pen is an area where birds can warm up and satisfy their need for physical activity. For poultry regular walking is necessary - this content allows you to achieve good egg production, and when fresh air enters the body of individuals, vitamin D, which is necessary for strengthening bones, begins to be actively produced.

That is why farmers prefer to build pens that are convenient for the movement of birds. You can make such a design yourself if you have all the materials, and today we will tell you what chicken pens are and how to make them yourself.

When growing poultry, both mobile and stationary pens are used. The design should be chosen based on the characteristics of your site and the number of chickens.

Mobile

Mobile structures are mainly used in the warm season, their peculiarity is that they quickly move to different parts of the territory. For greater convenience, wheels or special handles are installed on them, so you can move them alone.

The presence of a corral on the site will allow chickens to eat grass and various insects, which will significantly save money on the purchase of feed. The mobile design is useful because the birds can constantly feed on fresh green food in the new territory.

The upper part of the pen is usually covered with a net or other dense material so that the chickens do not have the opportunity to fly over and are not attacked. predator birds. Also, direct sunlight should not be allowed, therefore, a canopy is built for the paddock, covering at least a third of the area.

The structure is equipped with all necessary equipment, including feeding equipment. The construction of an additional mini-house with perches will provide the most comfortable conditions for chickens - individuals will not have to be constantly moved to a stationary chicken coop. Such a structure is raised on special supports in order to rationally use the area under the building - for feeding and walking birds.

There are several types of corrals that differ in shape:

• rectangular;
• triangular;
• arched.

During construction, various types of materials are used, including wood, metal pipes. The summer version of the corral can be made from light pipes.

Stationary

Stationary bird pens are usually used in both cold and warm seasons. They are mounted near the wall of the chicken coop so that the chickens have free access to the street. When growing broilers, it is not necessary to make a high fence, its optimal height is one and a half meters, however, for other individuals capable of flying, they build a higher corral or close it with a net. The need to close the roof arises if various predators live in the area, which pose a danger to poultry.

In such a pen, it is not necessary to make a canopy, because the birds can be in the hen house during changes in weather conditions. A small part of the paddock should be fenced off only if it is constantly exposed to sunlight.

Preparation for construction

Any novice farmer can handle the construction of a bird pen, because such actions do not require special skills. However, in order to build a reliable structure, you will first need to draw up a construction plan, select a suitable plot of land and materials.

First you need to decide on the type of future design. If you have a small farm, it is recommended to build a mobile paddock for summer walking on your site. Installation will not take much time, and the chickens will have the opportunity to eat fresh herbs. Often these portable houses are placed in areas where there is an active growth of weed plants, because birds quickly exterminate them.

Advice! It will take more time to build a stationary pen, so work should begin even before the chickens grow up.

Mesh selection

Of great importance is the choice of the grid of the future aviary - it is necessary to opt for the most durable and durable option.

Table 1. Types of mesh for paddocks

Appearance	Description
	Fine mesh galvanized mesh is the best option for corral construction. It does not need maintenance and staining, it is easy to install.
	Polymer mesh is often used in the construction of various enclosures, because it has an affordable price compared to metal. However, you should not choose this option if rodents are found on the site. Otherwise, the grid will quickly become unusable.
	The chain-link mesh is durable, it is used in the construction of various structures. However, when building an aviary for young animals, it is desirable to choose a grid with a smaller mesh size.

Size calculation

The exact size of the structure depends on the size of the livestock. Do not forget that the lack of territory will lead to conflicts between individuals, various injuries. In addition, stressful conditions adversely affect the productivity of birds.

It is important to provide at least 1.5 square meters for each chicken. m area. This means that for ten individuals, an aviary of about 15 square meters will be required. m. It optimal dimensions suitable even for laying hens who need more space to improve their productivity.

Birds meat breeds requires minimal space for walking, so you do not have to build a spacious paddock. On average, for ten individuals, it is necessary to build an aviary of about 6 square meters. m.

Choosing a place for construction

For the construction of a stationary structure, it is important to choose the right place. Chickens should get into the aviary from their chicken coop without any problems. It is recommended to locate the object on the south side, and the north wall is usually reinforced with corrugated board.

Stationary buildings should not be built in pits and various recesses, because it is in such places that increased accumulation of moisture is observed, which negatively affects the condition of the birds. The windows of the room should only face south so that the first rays of the sun penetrate the chicken coop.

Ways to build an aviary yourself

Having chosen the materials and having decided on the plan and the construction project, you can proceed to the construction process itself. Below we describe how this is done.

Construction of a stationary open aviary

This is the simplest enclosure design. For construction you will need:

• roll mesh;
• metal pipes;
• flexible wire;
• measuring tape;
• other tools.

Table 2. detailed instructions for construction

Illustration	Description
	Step one: we mark the location of the enclosure racks in the corners. To do this, you need to measure the width of the structure on each side. The distance from the marks to the wall of the chicken coop should match.
	Step two: we outline the location of the gate. Its average height is about 90 cm. The main thing is that it is convenient to enter the opening.
	Step three: we put additional markings in the middle between the racks for installing poles. They are made in order to securely fasten the mesh from all sides.
	Step four: we make indentations in the soil with a drill about 45 centimeters deep. They must match the diameter of the pipes.
	Step five: we cut the pipes to the optimal length (it should also be taken into account that some of them will go deep into the ground) and lower them into the ground. Then the racks should be carefully leveled, sprinkled with sand and poured with liquid concrete. In this state, they should be left for 3-4 days, so that the concrete has time to harden.
	Step six: by welding, we attach metal hooks to the pipes. The lower hook is fixed a few centimeters from the ground level, and the upper one from the beginning of the rack.
	Step seven: we fix a corner with openings for the wire on the wall of the chicken coop using self-tapping screws.
	Step eight: we fix the grid on the wall of the finished chicken coop using flexible wire or nails. You will need to connect the roll mesh to each other at the edges. To facilitate this process, you can use a flexible wire.

The next step is to install the gate. It is a rectangular structure made of metal. profile pipe, and a grid is attached on top of it. If necessary, the wicket frame can be assembled from timber, but it is reinforced with metal plates on each side. Next, the gate is suspended by hinges.

If there is too loose earth on the site, then a net should be dug around the entire perimeter of the enclosure, because the birds rake the soil with their paws and can go beyond the fence through the hole.

If the soil in the area is hard, do not deepen the grid. The main thing is that the structure fits snugly to the ground. In addition, when fixing the net at the bottom of the enclosure, it is necessary to ensure that all sharp parts of the flexible wire look out. Otherwise, chickens may be injured.

Construction of a stationary covered corral with a canopy

When building a closed corral, use:

• pipes with a diameter: 2×4 cm, 4×4 cm, 6×6 cm;
• polycarbonate sheets;
• net;
• set of tools;
• flexible wire;
• measuring tape;
• nuts.

Table 3. Detailed instructions for the manufacture of an indoor aviary

Illustration	Description
	Step one: using measuring tape mark the location of the supporting structures. The initial row is located at a distance of about 45 centimeters from the chicken coop, the other row is the width of the aviary itself. The distance between the racks is 200-250 centimeters.
	Step two: strictly according to the markup, we make meter deepenings in the soil.
	Step three: cut to the desired length of a pipe of a larger diameter. Pipes located near the wall of the chicken coop should be 150 centimeters higher than the base of the roof. Another row of racks is made half a meter lower. Thanks to a convenient slope, the water will flow down.
	Step four: we lower the pipes into the recesses one by one, fill them with sand and pour concrete. It is necessary to carefully monitor their height, align if necessary. In this state, the structure should stand for several days until the concrete completely hardens.
	Step five: in order to achieve maximum stability, we fix the profile to the wall of the house. Its length should be equal to the height of the wall.
	Step six: we build a hinged structure. In the upper part of the racks, a strapping belt from pipes is fixed by welding, and then the lower belt from pipes of a smaller section is also attached. It must be welded a few centimeters below the main belt. Braces of pipe parts are fixed between the belts at a right angle.
	Step seven: we tie a profile of a smaller diameter. It is cut and attached from the outside. For such purposes, openings are provided in the racks. The lower harness is located at a distance of 5-6 centimeters from the soil, the upper harness is at a distance of one and a half meters. When installing, leave space for the gate.
	Step eight: we put a crate on the rafters, and only then we fix polycarbonate or other material.
	Step nine: we fix the grid on the base of the aviary. This can be done with a flexible wire.
	Step ten: we fix the hinges in the doorway by welding. And then we put the gate on the hinges.

Upon completion of all construction works should equip the inside of the aviary. For birds, various ladders and hills are installed. A pad is laid on the floor. Usually it consists of sawdust, hay and is replaced as it gets dirty.

Important point! To prevent the penetration of rodents to birds, it is recommended to build a solid foundation for the chicken coop.

Video - Do-it-yourself walking for chickens with a canopy

Portable paddock

For the construction of a mobile pen structure, you will need:

• dried boards;
• plywood sheet;
• beam;
• metal grid.
• construction stapler;
• nails.

Construction process:

1. From the boards it is necessary to build the side of the aviary. And then they cut off the ends. After that, a grid is installed between the crossbars using a stapler.
2. On both sides, the walls are connected with self-tapping screws, and crossbars are attached to the lower part. And then cut them at an angle.
3. In the middle part of the frame, spacers are fixed with nails, retreating a few centimeters. The end parts of the spacers are also cut at an angle.
4. The top of the frame is sheathed with plywood sheets. The end part of the aviary is closed with a net.
5. To make the corral more stable, planks of timber are fixed on top of the entire structure.

The portable structure can be equipped with a perch upon completion of the main construction work. If necessary, additional transverse strips are fixed inside so that the birds easily rise to the perch.

Summing up

A room for walking birds must be on every farm. Fresh air and green food contribute to the active growth of individuals and strengthen their immunity. It is not advisable to send chickens for free range - they can get lost or become victims of stray dogs or predatory animals, and unscrupulous neighbors can simply steal thoroughbred chickens.

Video - Building a range for chickens

A corral is needed for walking poultry. In the fresh air, the health of chickens becomes better, egg production increases. Under the rays of the sun, vitamin D is produced in the body of birds, which helps to strengthen the skeleton. To limit the movement of chickens around the site, it is also best to use a corral. This design can be done by hand. Consider the types of corrals and everything you need to make them yourself.

Types of chicken pens

Given the conditions of the site where poultry is kept, a mobile or stationary pen can be used.

mobile

These designs are good to use in the summer, especially if there is a large area for walking. Two people can easily move them around the site. If the structure is equipped with wheels or comfortable handles, then it can be carried by one person.

Walking chickens in such pens on the grass will allow the bird to get green food and various worms. Such forage feed allows you to save on the nutrition of these poultry. After the chickens have chosen food from one area, the mobile pen is transferred to a new, untouched area, with fresh vegetation.

From above, this design is closed with a net or other material so that the chickens cannot fly over the fences. The corral is equipped with drinkers and feeders, they make a canopy from the sun, as well as from the rain.

In order not to overtake the birds from such a pen constantly to the chicken coop and back, a mini-chicken coop with perches is often used. Such a house for chickens is made on supports so that you can use the space under the building.

For walking chickens, a corral in the form of a large cage is used, in which they are placed during the day. Such portable structures are also equipped with a drinking bowl, a feeder and a canopy.

Did you know? Chickens are one of the most numerous birds on Earth. There are three individuals of these poultry per inhabitant of the planet.

Stationary

A pen for permanent use is built near the chicken coop and adjacent to its walls. A canopy is not made in this design, because if necessary, the bird can hide in the chicken coop.

However, you should take care of shading. To do this, some poultry farmers plant trees right inside the corral. If the tree is fruit, then its fallen fruits can serve as additional food for birds.

For sedentary, heavy meat or meat and egg breeds it is enough to make a corral 1.5 m high. And for more active breeds of birds, it should be made higher (up to 2 m) or closed from above. If predators (weasels, ferrets, etc.) can visit the site, then the corral should be made closed and a chain-link net should be used that these animals cannot gnaw through.

Size calculation

The size of the bird pen depends on the number of birds. Lack of space can lead to crushing during feeding, cause stress, which will reduce the productive capacity of hens.

When calculating dimensions, consider the following:

• for each adult should be 1-2 square meters. m of area: for example, for 10 chickens, the optimal area for walking will be 14 sq. m - these are the sizes that are relevant for laying hens, since they are active on the walk;
• for chickens of meat breeds that lead a sedentary lifestyle, you can take a smaller area for walking: for example, 4 square meters will be enough to grow broilers. m for 6-8 individuals.

Stationary paddock is important initially to properly position. Chickens should get into it from the chicken coop immediately. It is best to place it on the south side of the chicken coop and close the northern part from cold winds. It is recommended to make a wall facing north solid and use materials such as corrugated board, slate, etc.

When both a chicken coop and a corral are made at the same time, then a place for them should be chosen away from the road. You can save a lot of space by opting for a tall pole chicken coop option. It is also not necessary to build a canopy, since poultry will hide under the chicken coop from precipitation and sunlight.

You should not place a stationary chicken coop with an aviary in a lowland. Water accumulates in such places, and high humidity negatively affects the chicken coop itself and the health of its inhabitants. The chicken coop window should face the sunniest (south) side and nothing should shade it.

Building a portable corral with your own hands

The portable structure is built from lighter materials so that it is convenient for a person to rearrange it around the site. Such pens are good for growing young animals and chickens of meat breeds, which are gaining weight well in a couple of months during the warm period.

An example of a drawing of a portable pen for chickens

Tools and materials

For a portable pen with dimensions of 2x1 m and a height of 0.6 m, you need to buy the following materials:

• wooden bars 5x5 cm, 2 m long - 10 pcs.;
• galvanized metal mesh - 6 m in length with a width of 1 m or 3 m in length with a width of 2 m, with mesh sizes of 20x20 mm (this mesh is suitable for both chickens and adults);
• small nails for fastenings;
• lock and hinges to it.

Of the tools we need:

• roulette;
• a hammer;
• saw.

Did you know? The metal mesh can be easily cut by placing it with a cut line on the edge steel angle and hit with a hammer. If necessary, the incision line is folded over until it breaks. In order to separate the mesh along the panel, unscrew one thread.

Step-by-step instruction

When making a portable pen with dimensions of 2x1 m, the following steps must be followed:

1. We saw the timber into 11 pieces of 0.6 m in length. Of these, 7 pieces are used for the posts of our corral and 4 pieces for the door leaf. For the upper and lower slats, 4 pieces are sawn. 1 m each and use the remaining 4 pcs. by 2 m.
2. We make the frame of our paddock. To do this, we nail racks 0.6 m long to the upper and lower strips with a gap between them of 1 m. Do not forget about the 7 rack for the door.
3. Separately, we make a door plane with dimensions of 0.6x0.6 m. We install a lock and hinges on the bars for the door.
4. We cut the mesh into pieces commensurate with the resulting frame, do not forget about the segment on the door.
5. We stretch a mesh onto our structure and doors, fixing it with nails.

The main structure is ready. Some areas can be shaded as needed.

Video: construction and practice of using a portable chicken coop, also referred to as a "chicken tractor"

Construction of a stationary open range from a chain-link mesh

The device for constant walking with a chicken coop has its own characteristics.

Tools and materials

Building an open netting paddock is the easiest way to set up an area for walking birds. Consider the option of a stationary pen for 10 chickens with dimensions of 2x7 m and a height of 2 m, with one end adjacent to the wall of the chicken coop. When calculating materials, existing walls are excluded from the total perimeter.

An example of a plan for a chicken coop with a range

To equip such a pen, you should stock up on the following tools and materials:

• galvanized chain-link mesh 2 m wide - 16 m;
• profile pipes with a diameter of 5-10 cm, length 6 m - 5 pcs.;
• wire;
• hinges and bolt;
• Bulgarian;
• wire cutters;
• roulette;
• a hammer;
• gravel and sand;
• level for construction;
• manual drill;
• concrete solution.

Step-by-step instruction

Usually, the construction of a stationary open range from a chain-link mesh is done as a small extension to one of the walls of the chicken coop in order to save building materials and space.

1. Make markings for installing corner posts for the building. For this purpose, use a tape measure to measure the width of the range from the corner of the chicken coop on both sides. These sides must be equal to each other.
   
2. Mark the location of the gate and measure the width for the opening. Usually the gate is set with a width of 0.8-1 m.
3. Then, between the posts located at the corners, marks are made with an interval of 1.5-2 m to install the supports on which the mesh will be stretched and attached.
4. With the help of a special hand drill, recesses of at least 35-40 cm in diameter are pulled out according to the marks, slightly larger than the diameter of the pipe for support. If the soil is very soft, then the diameter is increased by 35-40 cm.
   The depth of the pit, depending on the type of soil, is 60-100 cm.
5. Pipes are cut to the required length, taking into account the depth to which they are buried in the ground. We have 2.8 meters, of which 0.8 meters will be underground. In total, we get after cutting 8 pcs. pipes 2.8 m long (for racks) and 2 pcs. segments with a length of 0.8 m and 2 m (for the door).
6. After that, the racks are placed in prepared recesses and covered with fine gravel and sand. The supports are fixed vertically and poured with a concrete solution. After that, they wait three days for the concrete to harden as expected. If the soil is dense enough, then to install a chain-link fence, the pipes can simply be driven into the ground. Such an installation can save concrete. To do this, holes are drilled in the designated places, whose cross section is smaller than the size of the pipes. Then they need to hammer pipes with a sledgehammer.
   It will take two people to drive the pipes into the ground.
7. Metal hooks are installed on metal pipes by welding in the following order: below 15 cm above the ground level, in the middle and above 12-15 cm below the top.
8. To the wall of the chicken coop at the point of attachment of the chain-link mesh, a wooden beam measuring 5x5 cm is installed with a hammer and nails. Instead of a beam, a metal corner with pre-drilled holes for the wire can be installed using self-tapping screws.
   
9. Chain-link fencing is installed. The edge of the net is fixed to the wall of the chicken coop with nails or wire. Then it is pulled between the supports with hooks. It is worth noting that all supports must be inside the corral, and the grid should pass from the outside. Rolls of mesh are connected to each other with a wire that is pulled along the edge of the mesh, but knitting wire can also be used to connect. The nets are overlapped, as over time the tension can loosen, which can lead to the formation of holes in the fence through which the chickens will crawl out.
   A special wire is used to fix the mesh
10. The gate is attached. It consists of a metal pipe along the perimeter and a chain-link mesh fixed to it by welding. Instead of pipes, you can use wooden bars, which are fixed at the corners with metal plates. Then fasten the hinges, the bolt and install the gate.

Important! If a wooden beam is used instead of metal pipes, then it is pre-treated with a special protective coating (for example, Senezh Ecobio or other similar antiseptic), which will protect the beam from decay, which will significantly extend its service life.

If the soil is loose and soft, then the mesh is added dropwise from below by 18–20 cm along the entire fence. This is done so that the chickens do not crawl out of the pen, as they are very fond of digging in the ground.

Given the tendency of chickens to dig in the ground, it is advisable to strengthen the bottom of the grid with improvised materials

If the soil is rocky and dense in structure, then it is quite enough for the chain-link mesh to touch the ground level. When pulling the netting, care must be taken that the sharp edges of the wire are not located inside the corral, as poultry can be injured by accidentally catching on them.

Construction of a stationary covered paddock

A stationary corral is made covered if the breed of kept chickens can fly over the fence, or with the possible access of small predatory animals or birds. We take as a basis a corral measuring 2x7 m and a height of 2 m, which is adjacent to the wall of the chicken coop with one two-meter end.

An example of a model of a stationary covered corral made of wood

Tools and materials

To build a stationary indoor corral, you need to stock up on the following tools and materials:

• metal pipes with a section diameter of 2x4 cm, length 6 m - 4 pcs.;
• metal pipes with a section of 4x4 cm, length 6 m - 2 pcs.;
• metal pipes with a section of 6x6 cm, length 6 m - 5 pcs.;
• chain-link mesh 2 m wide - 26 m;
• hinges and latch for the door;
• self-tapping screws;
• drill;
• Bulgarian;
• wire cutters;
• manual drill;
• a hammer;
• apparatus for welding;
• nuts and bolts;
• construction level;
• measuring tape;
• knitting wire.

Step-by-step instruction

Experts for the construction of a stationary indoor corral recommend following the following step-by-step instructions:

1. Measure with a tape measure and make markings for installing corner supports. Intermediate racks are placed at intervals of 1.5–2 m. One support is placed taking into account the size of the doorway.
2. According to the markings for the installation of racks, they dig indentations about 1 m in diameter 35–40 cm using a special drill.
   
3. From a pipe 6x6 cm grinder cut 8 pcs. 2.8 m long (for racks) and 2 pcs. segments with a length of 0.8 m and 2 m (for the door). As racks, you can use a bar made of wood.
   
4. Pipes are placed in prepared recesses, filling voids with gravel and sand, leveled vertically, and then poured with concrete. For the concrete to harden, 3 days are allotted for this. During this period, work is stopped.
   
5. To enhance the strength of the frame, a 2x4 cm profile is attached to the wall of the house. The profile is equal in length to the height of the wall and is placed in a plane with racks that are located at the edges.
6. Build a canopy. On top of the racks, the upper strapping belt is fixed by welding from a 4x4 cm pipe. The lower strapping belt is made of a pipe with a section of 4x2 cm. It is welded 20 cm below the upper belt. Between such belts, braces of 4x2 cm pipe sections are fastened by welding at an angle of 45 degrees.
   
7. They make a strapping from a smaller profile. It is cut according to the required parameters and fixed to the racks from the outside. To do this, holes are made in the racks and crossbars for attaching bolts. The piping along the bottom is 5–10 cm from the ground level, and the piping along the top is located at a height of 150–170 cm. When installing the crossbars, leave a gap for the gate.
   
8. A chain-link mesh is installed on the frame, fixing it with a knitting wire. You can also install hooks on the racks by welding and pull the chain-link mesh on them.
   
9. Hinges are attached to the doorway post by welding, after which a gate is applied and the attachment points are marked. Then hang the gate by screwing the upper parts of the hinges. The valve is welded to the other post at the opening.

   
   

A high-quality do-it-yourself chicken pen will save the farmer money. At the same time, the birds will feel free and easy in the poultry house. In order for the chickens to feel comfortable, they are grown in spacious clean rooms. The corral can be bought, but it is not cheap. A farmer can build a corral with his own hands in order to save money and reliability.

Why do chickens need to be walked?

Chicken farming is popular in agriculture. Birds provide eggs and meat, the sale of which brings a good, stable profit to the breeder. However, without a chicken coop and paddock for birds, farmers will not be able to control the movement of their numerous farmsteads.

In addition to the main food, the birds are happy to peck grass and dig up seeds from the ground. Therefore, a fenced space is necessary for birds.

To minimize costs, you can build a chicken pen with your own hands. The process will take a lot of time, but the result will meet expectations.

Most often, the paddock, where chickens will walk, is fenced with a metal mesh. Its height must be at least two meters. Otherwise, the bird will fly over the obstacle. The place reserved for the aviary can be sown with grass.

Preparation for construction

Before you build a corral with your own hands, you need to accurately calculate all the costs, determine the location of the paddock. Only after this stage, you can begin the construction process itself.

Choose a place

The creation of a paddock begins with accurate measurements of the area. It is recommended to install a paddock where the birds will be, as far as possible from the house. After all chicken manure gives an unpleasant smell. And if you make a building at a decent distance from the house, it will not be felt.

Cooking material

Before you make a chicken coop with your own hands, you need to draw up a project of the room. This will help to calculate the required amount of materials for the house.

On the construction market you need to purchase approximately ten meters of iron mesh netting with a mesh size of about a square centimeter. You will also need wooden bars, from which you can make the walls and floor of the chicken coop. Their number depends on the desired length and width of the room.

In addition to materials for building a poultry house, additional tools will come in handy. You will need nails, a saw, an ax, an iron mesh for fencing. With all the necessary materials and tools, you can build a wonderful paddock for chickens with your own hands.

Step-by-step instruction

The first step is the foundation. The building of the premises begins with the foundation. So that the birds do not stain their paws and plumage, a shallow layer of soil is removed along the perimeter of the future corral. Then the place for keeping chickens wakes up with lime, small stones or sand. Further along the corners of the house, it is necessary to make supports by digging wooden beams into the ground, the height should be about two meters.

Step two - walls. Now you can lay out the walls of the chicken coop from wooden beams. It is important to build a spacious range for chickens in which they will move freely. If the paddock is being built for summer time, a chain-link will suffice. Along the perimeter of the floor, walls and ceiling, a mesh is attached to the supports, with the help of nails.

Step three - perch. Laying hens definitely need a perch in a corral. To do this, build a wooden box of arbitrary size. Saw off three pieces of the same length from the board. They will serve as the basis and longitudinal walls of the perch. Connect the boards to each other perpendicularly so that an inverted letter "P" is obtained.

Now you need to fix the other two walls to the perch. Measure the required height of the boards, saw off, then attach perpendicularly to the base. The walls are also fastened together with nails. At the end, cover the perch with straw.

Step four is the door. This is where a mesh that is attached to a wooden structure comes in handy. The width of the door can be arbitrary, but its height should be equal to the size of the corral walls. In addition to the rectangle, which will serve as a frame, a transverse bar is needed. It is attached to the longitudinal door boards and serves as an additional support for the mesh.

Step five is the roof. To protect the paddock from external influences, an ordinary sheet of slate is suitable, which covers the building. The design will allow birds to hide from bad weather or from the hot sun. The paddock can be covered with a sheet of polycarbonate, screwing it with the most common self-tapping screws.

It is necessary to prepare perches where the birds will spend the night. It uses wooden beams that are attached to the walls of the corral parallel to the floor. Depending on the number of birds, feeders, drinkers and nest stands are installed. These are all the necessary elements that should be in any chicken coop.

If you doubt your abilities, you can watch the training video. With its help, the technical side of the issue and the sequence of actions will become clear. After a while, the do-it-yourself pen for laying hens will be ready.

How to make a portable pen?

If there are few layers in the courtyard, they can be placed in a portable pen. This design can be moved to places with fresh grass. Most often, the paddock is used in the summer and for rearing young animals. However, for chickens, a pen is made smaller than for adults.

To make a portable aviary with your own hands, it is not necessary to prepare the foundation. It is enough to assemble the frame and fit it with a metal mesh. The ceiling of the structure will be slate, plywood or polycarbonate. Before starting construction, you can find and study the video with step-by-step instructions.

So, a portable corral is assembled from improvised materials. As a rule, wooden slats are used for its construction or plastic pipes, and metal mesh. The construction of the corral begins with the connection of wooden boards to each other. The result is a rectangle, exactly the same design will be needed to fix the walls of the corral.

At the corners of the figure, as well as along the perimeter of the structure, rails of the same length are vertically attached. It is determined by the farmer depending on the desired height of the building. A second rectangle is attached to these wooden pieces. The frame for a portable range is ready. Now you need to fit the structure with a mesh.

For the convenience of transferring the enclosure, the midpoints of the lengths of the rectangles are connected by a transverse rail parallel to the other two sides. In addition, this rail will serve as a support for the roof of the paddock.

Such a building can be used by breeders as a summer aviary. It is only necessary to provide such a house with feeders and drinkers so that the birds continue to receive the main food.

The so-called summer version of the paddock will cost the farmer several times cheaper than the construction of a stationary round-the-clock paddock for laying hens.

Photo gallery

Photo 1. Small paddock

Photo 2. Walking with a wooden floor

Photo 3. Summer aviary

Photo 4. Portable paddock in which young animals grow

Video "We build a house for laying hens with our own hands"

In this video, the sequence of building a chicken coop with your own hands is revealed in detail.

Rural residents do not always make a corral for chickens. If the poultry is free-range and most of the day swarms on the village street near the house, then the fence can not be installed. If the birds do not have the opportunity to leave the territory of the site, in this case they make a corral for chickens. Otherwise, they will do you more harm than good: they will spoil all the paths, peck ornamental plants and vegetables planted in the garden. Styrofoam or insulation not covered by siding will also suffer from them. Therefore, if your labor spent in the garden or on the decorative decoration of the site is dear to you, you still need to make a pen for chickens.

The fence is best placed near the chicken coop. So that the bird can leave the room on its own in the morning and enter it to sleep, lay eggs or in case of bad weather. B make a cutout for the size of the birds and do not close it.

On our site, we also decided to make a pen for chickens, with a canopy from the weather. Poultry keepers know how dirty the chicken coop is when it rains. A big disadvantage is the fact that chickens after such walks stain their eggs. Therefore, it is important that there is a roof over the paddock.In our case, was built.

CHICKEN PEN

But just a canopy is not enough, you need to make a fence so that the chickens do not go beyond its borders. To do this, veins are installed between the pillars, a grid is fixed on them. We made the canopy racks from a metal profile pipe, the veins will also be from a metal profile, 20 by 40 mm in size.

We will fasten the veins to the posts with the help of a bolt and nut. Cut pipes to size.

Drill holes in them, insert the bolt and tighten the nut.

It turns out a reliable strong connection, installing veins in this way is faster than using welding. In addition, there is no need to waste time stripping the pillars of paint, and then re-paint. Drilled, screwed - looks neat.

Next to the wall of the chicken coop, we will install a vertical bar, attaching it to the veins. We will later attach the grid to it.

In the place where it is planned, we will fence the corral with a net with a small cell so that the chicks cannot climb through it. For the sake of saving the budget, we will buy a mesh 30 cm high, for these purposes this size is quite enough.

As the main fence we use a grid with a large cell, it is cheaper and stronger.

We fasten the veins around the entire perimeter of the canopy.

Let's determine the place where the input will be. We made it with our own hands from wooden planks. We fix the gate on the canopy pole by welding small garage hinges to it.

They are detachable and consist of two parts. Separate the hinges, fasten the upper parts with self-tapping screws to the end of the gate.

We insert the lower parts into them, with a pin, and twist them with a knitting wire so that they do not fall out.

Install the gate near the post and determine its position relative to the ground. Let's unfold the lower parts of the hinges, lean them against the rack and, having previously drilled a hole, fix it with a self-tapping screw.

Now let's remove the gate from the hinges, clean the pillars from the old paint with an emery stone attached to the grinder, and weld the lower part of the hinges using electric welding. Paint over the metal surface with paint and hang the door in place.

Next to the opposite part of the gate, we will make a hole in the ground with a garden drill, about 1 m deep, and another metal pole on which the valve will hang.

Between the posts we will fix the veins as we did on the other side of the canopy.

Inside the chicken pen, where we have provided a small area for chickens, we will also hang.

And here we will install the crossbars.

We fence the entire chicken house with a mesh with a small cell.

It remains a little, to enclose the paddock with a completely large-mesh plastic mesh. It can be fixed on the crossbars with plastic clamps or ordinary soft wire.

Pigeons are very often annoyed to poultry keepers. Seeing the food, they flock to the pen in flocks and peck out all the grain that the chickens have not eaten. And every time there are more and more of them. Feeding chickens in a chicken coop is not very convenient, especially since they spend most of their time outside in the summer. In addition, pigeons often carry the infection. You can deal with them in different ways, but the most effective is to block access to grain. Therefore, we installed a mesh from the bottom to the very roof.

Now, after installing the corral, the chickens walk even in rainy weather, it is always dry around, and the pigeons have flown away in search of food to other yards.

VIDEO

The basis of successful breeding of birds is their proper maintenance. To do this, it is important to properly equip the aviary for chickens. The main task of this structure is not only the safety of livestock, but also an increase in productivity. Therefore, before making an aviary with their own hands, they study all the requirements for this building.

Summer aviary for chickens

Types of enclosures

All options for the design of enclosures are divided according to several criteria:

• Mobility. So allocate a stationary, portable and mobile aviary.
• Portable and mobile types of poultry houses are suitable for walking a small number of chickens. Such structures allow birds to have constant access to fresh grass. In the event that the chickens have already plucked out all the grass, the aviary is moved to a new area with thick grass. A mobile aviary is an improved version of a portable one, since the existing wheels provide greater mobility. Such facilities are chosen by poultry farmers who prefer summer keeping of birds. If the farmer's priority is year-round maintenance, then you should choose a stationary aviary (chicken coop). Despite the fact that there is no such indicator as mobility, this poultry house has a number of other advantages: the solidity of the structure, the ability to accommodate more birds.
• Installation method. According to this criterion, suspended and ground structures are distinguished. The basis of the suspended enclosure are supports, which excludes its contact with the ground and provides greater protection from predators. You can increase the degree of safety of the ground enclosure with your own hands due to the concrete base.

Chicken in ground enclosure

Calculating the size of the aviary

Before the construction of the aviary begins, its area is determined with their own hands. Neglecting the recommendations for calculating the area of ​​​​the poultry house causes a decrease in the productivity of laying hens and a decrease in the growth of meat breeds of chickens, because. lack of free space leads to stress and possible crush during feeding. When determining the area of ​​the enclosure, it should be taken into account that the structure with an area of ​​14 sq.m. (7x2 m) will provide comfortable maintenance of 10 adults.

Choosing a place for an aviary

For walking chickens in the fresh air, it is worth paying attention to the choice of the place where it is planned to make an aviary. Lack of sunlight provokes the development of rickets, but scorching rays also harm chickens. Mobile enclosures can always be moved depending on the degree of illumination.

It is desirable to build a stationary enclosure on the east side, because. the morning sun will give the birds the vitamin D they need without being too hot.

Do not place poultry houses in places where people often pass (along the fence, country paths, etc.). The stress that chickens experience will certainly affect their productivity. Therefore, the quietest and most secluded place on the site is ideal for an aviary.

A mandatory requirement for a comfortable walking of chickens is the presence of constantly growing grass. Therefore, it is worth either choosing the most green areas, or with your own hands after construction, sow the courtyard with grass. But too dense vegetation is undesirable, which will block the chickens from accessing the necessary sunlight.

Chickens need access to the sun

In the event of a large amount of precipitation, mobile enclosures are moved to a dry place. With a stationary chicken coop, this is not possible, so you should take care in advance to find a dry place for the poultry house. The best option is the location of the chicken coop on a hill. If this option is not possible, then you need to independently create a small "mound" of brick, gravel or stone. Around the building, experienced farmers make drainage - for this they dig a small trench for drains.

Material selection

Depending on the chosen type of construction, the necessary materials are determined.

To make a mobile aviary, it is enough to purchase:

• rolls of galvanized mesh;
• metal corners;
• wooden boards;
• fasteners;
• connection material (wire or special ties).

For a stationary chicken coop, additional material will be required for the foundation, main walls and roof. As roofing materials sheets of iron, slate, roofing material, etc. are used. You will need to purchase a heater or heater.

Metal mesh aviary

Installation of the aviary

The method of its installation directly depends on the type of structure chosen. For a portable enclosure, it is enough to make a metal frame from the corners and a mesh cover. It is necessary to stretch the mesh from above, making a 20-centimeter allowance. To prevent the occurrence of cracks and gaps, mesh sheets are overlapped. For the convenience of moving the aviary, handles are attached to the frame.

To upgrade a portable aviary into a mobile one with your own hands, it is enough to attach wheels to the existing structure. Mobile enclosures should be equipped with canopies under which chickens can hide from rain or from the scorching sun.

More time and money will be required to build a stationary poultry house. First of all, the foundation is poured and the walls are erected. The strength of the walls is achieved through the use of bricks or cinder blocks. But it is worth considering that these materials have a high heat transfer, so in the cold season, additional heating will be required in the chicken coop. The most comfortable room for birds in terms of microclimate is built of clay, into which straw is mixed. In the poultry house, built of adobe, a pleasant coolness remains in the summer, and it will be quite warm in the winter.

After building the foundation and walls, you need to make a roof. To avoid roof leakage, it is necessary to cover the roof with a layer of waterproofing material. The roof is recommended to be made gable - this design prevents the accumulation of precipitation, so the pressure on the roof will be less. Then the floor is poured. Concrete pouring or adobe flooring is allowed as a coating. Some farmers make a wooden floor: they cover the floor with stones or bricks, and on top they cover it with wooden boards pre-treated with tar. An earthen floor is also allowed. Regardless of the type of floor, it is necessary to cover it with a litter. The most common bedding option is sawdust. You can arrange a bed of sand or chopped straw.

Ventilation of the enclosure is necessary both in winter and in summer

To ensure ventilation, it is necessary to have windows with vents and ventilation openings. Windows should be located on the south side, which will ensure maximum penetration of sunlight. In the summer, the windows of the chicken coop are constantly open, so that predators cannot get into the chicken coop, it is necessary to equip the window openings with a fine mesh.

Arrangement of a chicken coop

Often, a pen made of mesh is attached to a stationary chicken coop with their own hands to provide chickens with the opportunity to walk in the fresh air. The device of a chicken coop with a mesh aviary attached to it allows you to keep chickens all year round: indoors, birds can hide from the cold and bad weather, and in warm weather, they can walk in the fresh air.

When equipping a stationary chicken coop with a mesh pen, you should definitely take into account the love of chickens for digging. Therefore, so that the birds do not escape from the chicken coop, the net is dug into the ground to a depth of about 20 centimeters during the installation of the aviary.

The chicken coop must be equipped with places for birds to rest. Perches should be located 50 cm from the floor level. It is undesirable to equip poultry houses with multi-tiered perches, because. hens located on the upper perch will dirty their relatives. It is also possible that conflict situations arise between birds, because each individual will strive to occupy a higher position. To prevent chickens from injuring their paws, the perches are processed with a planer. Experienced farmers arrange removable perches. In the hot season, additional perches are set up so that the chickens are placed at a distance from each other and can spread their wings. In winter, when the chickens are cold, they cling tightly to each other, so the extra perches are removed.

When breeding laying hens, nests in which birds will lay and incubate eggs are an indispensable element of the chicken coop. To preserve the eggs, the bottom is lined with a layer of sawdust or straw. Nests are placed in a dark place. The number of nests depends on the number of hens bred. One nest is provided for no more than three layers.

Chickens need nests

In the autumn-winter period, when there is little sunlight, natural light is not enough for chickens. The optimal daylight hours for poultry is about 16 hours. Therefore, stationary chicken coops are equipped with additional light sources. One 60-watt lamp is enough to illuminate 10 sq.m. gender. It is unacceptable to place open lamps: when flying, chickens can touch them and get hurt. Lamps are placed in thick glass shades. The use of more powerful lighting or long daylight hours stress chickens, which reduces their performance.

Often, at the entrance to the aviary, a "tambour" is equipped. To avoid the departure of birds during the entrance to the aviary, the vestibule is made of boards.

Any of the selected designs should be equipped with drinkers and feeders.

When installing enclosures, it is necessary to firmly fix all its elements, and also to prevent the presence of protruding ends of the net, wire or ties, and fasteners. Protruding sharp parts can injure the bird.

After the completion of the installation work, it is worth starting the finishing work: the walls of the stationary chicken coop are covered with lime mortar from the inside, and covered with oil paint on the outside. It is not recommended to use paints containing lead to cover the mesh.

Reliability of the design is the guarantee of safety

Poultry Care

The simplest in terms of care are mesh designs. To ensure the correct maintenance of chickens, it is enough to rearrange them in time to another place, as well as eliminate the defects that have arisen.

When caring for a chicken coop, it is important to monitor the cleanliness of the floor, to prevent the accumulation of moisture. To do this, you need to regularly clean the floor surface from litter and food debris and make flooring from sawdust.

With a large assortment of chicken enclosures ready for sale, it is still worth doing it yourself. This will allow you to get a design that fully meets all the requirements of the farmer, suitable for the selected type of poultry keeping, and also saves costs.