Chicken Coop Roost Height and Other Factors to Be Considered in Building Perches

Determining the right chicken coop roost height isgrip it. The bar should not be too smooth since
important in keeping your chickens comfortablechickens will have trouble getting a grip. However,
and healthy. Some coop builders focus too muchit should not be too rough either as you don't
on other aspects of the design that they usuallywant your chickens to have splinters.
forget how important roosting places are forDesign specs
chickens.If you have a number of chickens and you need
In here, we will provide you with guidelines onmore than one roosting bar, don't build them one
determining the right chicken coop roost heightabove the other. This is because droppings from
and offer tips on other design aspects relatedthe chickens roosting in the upper most level will
with coop roosting features.fall on the ones below and that would be a mess.
Functions of coop roost polesThe best way to accommodate all your chickens
Chickens do not usually sleep on floors. Theirwithout cramping their space is to build the bars
nature makes them look for an elevated place tostair-like and not with each bar directly above the
sleep to protect themselves from predators andother. Twelve inches of distance between poles is
it is common for them to look for an elevatedthe ideal measurement.
place when roosting at night.Position in the coop
Perch heightPerches should be placed opposite where nests
Perches or roosting bars should be constructed onare located and directly above the litter boxes.
a high level, but not too high that chickens will feelMake sure that your litter boxes are enough for
discouraged to fly up and use them. The idealeach roost pole. Also, make the boxes accessible
level is at the two-third section of your coop.to whoever is responsible for their regular clean
Materials for roost barsup.
The best material to use for perches or roostChicken coop roost height is just one of the
bars is wood. Some use pipes and metal bars, butfactors that you need to consider when building
wood is still the best option. More often than not,perches for your chickens. Don't forget that
two-inch diameter bars are used for backyardmaterials to be used, their position within the coop
roosts.and their size are also important and should be
It is advisable to shave off the edges and makegiven appropriate attention.
the bar a bit rounded so that chickens' claws can