A Chicken coop or a hen house are basically the same except that a hen house suggests that you are going to allow your hens to breed and to actually hatch eggs. If you are looking at baby chicks; then, you are looking at building a hen house. If you are just looking for fresh eggs from your own chickens; then, you are looking to build a chicken coop. It is cheaper to build either one yourself then to buy one already assembled; however, there are many coops assembled and ready to be shipped online for an extravagant price.

It all depends on how badly you want to have fresh eggs and a hen that can hatch fertilized eggs. If you are really serious and have a nice back yard and a handy book on chicken coops, you can begin to gather your building materials. You will need to plan it in a spot where the chicken can be best protected not only from predators but from the weather.

You will also need to add insulation to your supply of building materials, lighting, nesting platforms, perching areas, some wood, wire mesh and a way of keeping the chicken house clean.

But, before you run to the local building and supply center in your town, you should call your local city hall to find out how many chickens you are allowed to keep on your property. Of course, that precaution is only if you don't live on a farm. If you live in a suburb or in a city, there are, unfortunately, ordinances governing the raising of chickens and maybe keeping a rooster along with them.

If you are allowed to keep three, you can plan on giving them enough space to keep them comfortable and safe. Always keep in mind that chickens have wings which they occasionally use to escape. For three birds you will need one nesting box that is safely situated and private. You will also need to find a source to start your hen laying, someplace that sells hens.

The most practical way of beginning your hen house is to find chicken coop plans, buy your materials and order your birds from a catalogue.




Discover how you can make a Hen House yourself easily. Go to: Make A Hen House