Question on Coop Space and Runs

[Trodore]

Hello,

I have 8 hens and 1 rooster currently in a coop and run system. They get a few hours Monday - Friday to run free and pretty much all weekend, but with winter coming they will be locked up more and more. My coop is 3ft off the ground and is 4 ft by 8 ft by 4 ft. I have an 8ft. by 10ft by 7ft. run attached, this includes the 3 ft clearence under the coop. When they are in the run and coop they stay out of the coop until the sun is going down and I don't have fighting. My question is do they have enough space to get them through winter in the coop and run.

 

[Judy]

I would not personally limit chickens to that amount of space, especially in winter. I would say it is marginal. A larger outdoor area that is free enough of snow that they will use it in snowy weather would probably be the first thing I would add.

Here is an excellent article on space:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/how-much-room-do-chickens-need

 

[cavemanrich]

IF THERE IS NO FIGHTING THEN YOU ARE FINE. You are at the limits according to accepted guidelines. Your raised coop is at a low volume level being only 4 feet tall. During winter there may be some issues when they stay inside all day. Some days , your chickens will be going in the run during winter . All weather permitting. Another thing to consider is your ventilation. With 9 birds, there is plenty of humidity as well as ammonia from droppings. If overcrowding does occur, you will know it by the behavior exhibited.

WISHING YOU BEST...

 

[Trodore]

Thank you all. I can give them double the run space if it is best. I plan to cover about 4 ft of the run as well with Plastic. I plan to keep about 6" to a 1ft open around the top for ventilantion. This should give them a snow and draft free run as well as the coop.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Yes more space is much better for them. I would go ahead and double the space. I know mine are always happier with more space.