Unsecure chicken perches

[-Kimberley-]

Hi

 

I have been thinking for a couple of weeks about maybe getting some hens. If I do, these will be the first hens that I have kept so at the moment I know very little about them.

 

I have bought a couple of books on how to care for them and will be giving them a thorough read before making my decision.

 

If I decide that poultry keeping is for me, I am more inclined to getting a plastic house because I think that they would be more hygenic when it comes to cleaning. My main concern is the space that they would need.

 

I work full time, so would need them to be in a run whilst I am out, which wouldn't be a problem, however when I am home, I don't think I could let them roam free in the garden because I live in the centre of town (house is on a mini-roundabout) and the garden isn't behind the house. My driveway runs along the side of my house and straight into the back garden. The garden is very large and would be worried about how I would get them back into the run at night if they were allowed access to the whole area, along with the worry of them either escaping through the gate or being run over when people come in/out the driveway.

 

Also, I know that we do get a vixen in our garden regularly. For many years it was completely overgrown and she kept burrowing in the garden, coming back each time she had a litter of cubs. Although we don't see her often now, she still comes in every now and then.

 

 

Soooooo! After that great big long explanation (hope you are still reading!) I was wondering - How much space would they need if, say, I had 3 or 4 hens? Could I get something like this http://www.flytesofancy.co.uk/chickenhouses/Poultry_Protection_Pens.html and would it be sufficient? All advice welcome along with any other suggestions for me to research.

 

Thank you

[Egluntyne]

That would be perfect. I have one ( 9' x 18') with 14 hens in it and there is plenty of room.

 

I have a cube in it, and it is simplicity itself to maintain.

[-Kimberley-]

Thank you for the quick reply

 

So they would be ok without 'outside' time as such, so long as the pen is big enough for them to roam about in?

 

Also, we had the garden re-done within the last year and the majority of it is gravel/decking/slabbed. The only bit that hasn't been done is where I would put the hens. I wouldn't want them ruining the rest of the garden either to be honest!! I want them contained, but with ample space still.

 

I like the look of the Cubes and the Classics. I've seen some other plastic houses on eBay etc but they don't look as nice.

 

Thanks again

[Egluntyne]

So they would be ok without 'outside' time as such, so long as the pen is big enough for them to roam about in?

They would. Give them some broccoli or cabbage to peck at, and a few branches to play hide and seek in and they will be fine.

[-Kimberley-]

Super! Thank you.

 

I spotted a picture of your run set up on the "Chicken Run Inspiration - just photos" thread - Looks great!!