If you’re raising chickens, one essential element of their housing is a chicken run. A chicken run provides your birds with a safe, enclosed area where they can stretch their wings, scratch, and forage while being protected from predators.
But instead of purchasing a pre-made structure, why not create your own? This guide will introduce several DIY chicken run plans that you can start on today.
Understanding the Basics: What is a Chicken Run?
A chicken run is a secure outdoor enclosure attached to the chicken coop where your chickens can enjoy fresh air and sunlight.
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The key elements of a good chicken run are size (it should offer at least 10 square feet per bird), protection from predators, and access to food and water.
DIY Chicken Run Plan 1: The Simple Square
This is one of the easiest designs you can build. It’s essentially a large square or rectangle enclosed with chicken wire or hardware cloth.
You’ll need four posts as the corners, horizontal braces for added strength, and a gate for access. Remember to bury the fencing at least 12 inches underground to deter digging predators.
DIY Chicken Run Plan 2: The Hoop House
A hoop house chicken run is built with arched frames usually made from PVC pipes, covered in poultry netting.
This design is cost-effective and provides plenty of space for chickens while protecting them from predators and harsh weather. The hoop shape also makes it easier to cover if you want to add a shade cloth or tarp.
DIY Chicken Run Plan 3: The Chicken Tunnel
For those with a large backyard, a chicken tunnel, or ‘chunnel’, can be a fun and effective solution. It’s a narrow, enclosed run that allows your chickens to traverse your yard safely. This design can be connected to the coop or be a standalone structure where you can herd your chickens when required.
Essential Tips for Building Your Chicken Run
Choose the Right Material: Use strong, durable materials like hardware cloth or chain link to keep predators out.
Consider the Roof: Including a roof can help protect your chickens from predators and weather. It can be as simple as a tarp or as sturdy as a wired mesh.
Remember the Door: Include a human-sized door for cleaning and maintenance, and a smaller one for chicken access.
Shade and Shelter: Make sure your chicken run provides areas of shade to protect your birds from the sun.
Predator Protection: Bury the fence underground and secure all the joints to ensure predators cannot break in.
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Conclusion
Creating a DIY chicken run can be a rewarding project that not only gives you the satisfaction of building something with your own hands but also provides your chickens with a safe, comfortable space to roam.
These plans provide a starting point, but remember that every chicken run can be modified to suit the specific needs of your flock and the constraints of your property.
No matter what design you choose, the most important thing is to create a space that keeps your chickens safe, happy, and healthy.
