Essentials for housing poultry

Chickens and other poultry are generally delicate creatures, and need careful attention. Amongst their requirements is secure, dry, warm shelter. In this article, we look at the essentials you need for a chicken house.

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Setting up a chicken house, also known as a chicken coop or poultry house, requires several essential pieces of equipment so that you can create a suitable and comfortable environment. The specific equipment needed can vary based on the size of the flock, the type of housing, and the management practices.

THE CHICKEN COOP

This is the primary structure in which your chickens will live. It should be sturdy, predatorproof and well-ventilated, and provide adequate space for the number of chickens you plan to keep. Keeping chickens in a coop makes it easier to manage and monitor your flock. It also offers protection from predators, helps reduce the risk of disease transmission by limiting the chickens’ exposure to pathogens, and provides protection against inclement weather. It also makes it easier for you or your farmworkers to collect eggs, and offer hens a designated area to lay their eggs.

NESTING BOXES AND PERCHES