Backyard Poultry Forum

Hi guys,

Thought I would put a post up regarding my gages/pens.

At the moment I have 1x6.5mX6.5mX1.8m main pen which is separated into 3 bays.

1x2.4mX1.2mX1.2m steel frame tractor style coop.

1x2.4mX1.2mX600mm timber frame tractor style coop.

1x3mX1.5mX600mm timber frame tractor style coop. (My best design so far)

Welcome Robby83
Let me acquaint you with BYP rule #1 - It didn't happen if we don't see pics

Repeat the design but eliminate the timber (red mites)

Hi sue and thanks, I had planned on adding pics but ran out of time unfortunately

Some pics of design #2 with inhabitants

They look good. I like the dbl access lids.
I have low pens like those which I use for brooding. The low gal roofs can get a heat build up. To help keep them cool I staple shade cloth on one side of a brick pallet - instant drop on safari roof.
One of my latest - used a metal table frame as the foundation.

Thanks for the tips sue,

I do like the steel frame pens, I will post some pics of mine soonish, though I don't have any welding equipment plus the cost of steel etc, could become an expensive pen or 2. I also like timber from a sustainability point of view, I can plant some trees around my property and feel a little bit better using timber products compared to large scale iron ore mining. I am recycling as much as I can ie tin and leftover things from other projects. There is Never going to be a perfect solution/option as everything we do has environmental implications .

Re the mites, fingers crossed no issues, I wonder if periodically resting a pen for 6 months could be a management option?

I will keep an eye on heat build up, good idea about the shade cloth, will keep that in my bag for future use.

My chooks live a basically recycled life style - love the Tip Shop and Farm Sales. You might enjoy reading this - and adding to it.
viewtopic.php?f=3&t=8034902&hilit=hippy+engineer

Great thread Sue, unfortunately I haven't had time to frequent recycling yards, tips, gumtree etc just yet, we have only been here on our 10 acre block 8mths so far and have been busy with some very significant projects including water, electricity, verandah/stairs, 2 yr old twins etc. and me in my wisdom have been expanding my livestock a bit quick so have had to build some new cages to keep up. I will be definitely drawing upon your thread for inspiration in the future, you have done an amazing job.

Couple more pics of my other pens

My main pen, this was salvaged from my grandparents house over grown and not being used, some new wire and supports for the rusted bits, should last me a couple of years, I have to make a few alterations including shade cloth and more tin for extra wind protection but so far so good

If it works and keeps them safe, it's good. Make sure they are all well predator proofed around the base - Foxes will dig and tunnel.