The Search for a Coop
It’s amazing to me how hard it is to find pre-fabricated chicken coops. Chickens are not rare, but for whatever reason, housing for them is.
The quote to have a coop built was obnoxiously high… I thought. But upon looking around I’ve found that sheds and outbuildings are expensive. It really makes me wish I was more handy with wood and tools. I located one coop pre-built locally and I stopped by today to look at it. It was very cute and designed specifically for chickens’ needs, but it measured only 4′x6′. It could have held 4-6 chickens, but definitely not 12.
I stopped at Home Depot and looked at the sheds they have there on display. They were only slightly cheaper than the quote from the builder and could be delivered for free. The problem with sheds is that they aren’t made for chickens. I would have to modify it for a chicken door, proper ventilation, nesting boxes and a roost. It just adds to the cost and frustration.
I took my search to the internet and didn’t fair much better there. A prefab chicken coop just isn’t readily available. Especially one that can hold more than 4 chickens. Apparently there are only two types of chicken farmers, commercial and urban. Either you’re supposed to have hundreds of chickens or less than 4. Everyone wants to sell me plans, but not the four walls that I need. I resorted to looking for sheds again, and even playhouses that could be modified. The cost was comparative but still with modifications needed.
Then I happened to find a site that offers some hope. Little Cottage Co at www.cottagekits.com. They sell playhouses but they also offer a few options for chicken coops; two that might actually fit my needs. I could order a coop pre-built or a kit to build myself. Both are within $150 of each other. A major factor to consider will be shipping. Since Little Cottage Co. is based out of Ohio shipping could differ greatly between packages. I’ve sent off an email inquiring on shipping charges to Maine.
My girls are still doing well at Whilli’s. Faith is molting. She’s embarrassed to be seen in public looking half plucked. Whilli finished harvesting her tomatoes and has now let the chickens out of the coop to free range. My older six are among them. They’ve taken to roaming and stay with their adopted flock. It’s funny that they still remember me. When ever I come to visit, they are all on my heels looking for a pat or something good to eat. I can’t wait to have them home.
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