Eglu Go With 2m Run For Sale

[rach_chick]

Hi we are looking at getting chickens and have a dilemma we need help with - we need to create a fenced off area to put classic eglu in if we have one to ensure chickens in safe enclosed area when let out however instead of building this could we have 3 -4 chickens in a cube and let them have more space by having a bigger run all the time? Thanks for any help

[rach_chick]

Sorry have re-read my post and not sure if it's clear! I was wondering whether having a cube with the run it comes with is big enough for 3-4 chickens without building any additional fencing/ letting them out? Otherwise we were thinking of an eglu classic with 2m run where chickens would spend most of time and fencing off a small area of garden (possibly with the eglu netting) to let them out in when we are home during the day? Any thoughts or advice?? Thank you!!!

[chuckmum6]

If you are thinking of largeish hens you need to allow a metre square per hen. If you had a cube you would need a 3m run really, you can add perches and tables for different levels, this isn't really possible in the Eglu (you would also need 3m run here). I own both, but think the cube is much better for humans especially (less painful on the back) and hens (space to flap) - get a cube it's a better design.

My Eglu seems to attract earwigs at the moment, which the hens go mad for when I clean it, I'm less keen, has anyone else found this (nothing like this gets in the cube)!

[Happy Mrs Chicken]

I bought a classic with 1m extension for my 3 chooks its very nice but i wish i had spent the extra money and bought the cube in the first place as you always end up wanting more chooks.I will save up and upgrade to a cube in a couple of years.I bought the omlet netting and they have supervised fr for about an hour a day.

[jasperaliceuk]

I've had a Go since May, 2m run, with two chickens. The thing with chickens is that as soon as they have had a taste of what is outside the confines they are in, they always want to be the other side! I try to let them have as much time out of the run as possible, either within the Eglu netting or free ranging. The former they need to be supervised so either I am in the house with a close eye and preferably with the dog in the garden and the latter only if I or others are in the garden with them. The fox has been known to call in the day.

 

They really, really want to get out of the run and make quite a fuss to let you know. They can see us inside the house from their Eglu and will start up their mithering. Even within the netting they will be plotting their escape to the garden. We have had some impromptu leaps over the top which has surprised them and us and they can also limbo under if not pegged down!

 

Which is why....I am now contemplating the cube and a WIR and sacrificing a portion of my garden. Never thought it would lead to this but I would like more eggs as I feel a need to share their bounty! And, they are a pleasure to watch. But I am hoping it will give me peace of mind and put my neighbour's mind at rest who is constantly telling me that they will be got by the fox.

 

Also, for the past week I have been laid up with a bad back attack and it has been bad news trying to clean and collect eggs. Had to press gang the rest of the family to poop scoop.

 

So - I think I'd go straight for the cube.

 

Sue

[Henergy]

I would say go for the max you can afford - so if a cube is within your budget then do that. I have just got a cube for my 4 and whilst I would be happy to leave them for the odd day all together in the run (if I am out say) I still provide them with a fenced off area as well. I don't tend to supervise them when they free range as we are (I think) reasonably free from urban foxes.

Here are some pictures (the wooden coop is soon to be moved out - it was their original home)

Good luck

[rach_chick]

Thanks so much for advice - much appreciated!! Rach

[squiffs]

I think the cube is only really serviceable for more than 2 chickens when it has the 3m extension, the ladder protrudes a LOT and takes up a lot of room when in the standard run, adding that extra metre has made me happy to keep 6 chickens in it.

[fluffy chick]

Actually i think I would start with a classic It is a much smaller investment and don't forget you're talking to chicken enthusiasts! Not everyone wants to get more chickens and some people give up all together once they know what's involved. The resale value of the classic is good should you choose to upgrade to a cube. Or you could add another classic giving you more flexibility.

Compared to the cube the classic has a better 'coop to run ratio' in my opinion. You could put a couple of chickens in the eglu and standard run. But the cube although will sleep 10 only comes with a 2 meter run which is ok for 2 ish chickens again I don't get omlet's maths on this one. They say 6 chickens in the standard cube run ( 2m) and 10 in the 3m run I know it's probably more than 2 and 3 meter squared but even so. I have both and find the cube run not much bigger then the eglu run. I don't use either of the runs (just for shelter) and have 25m of electric fencing. I have ordered a wir though so they have more space in bad weather.