How Much Space Do Chooks Need?
Crowded chooks are cranky chooks. Here is how to plan the space.
Chooks need space to move, perch, lay and dust bathe. Crowding leads to pecking, stress and dirty eggs.
1. Check the rules
Your state may have a poultry welfare code with minimum space figures, and your council may limit how many chooks you can keep and where. Check both.
2. The parts of a set-up
- Coop: a dry, draught-free house to roost and lay.
- Perches: enough length for every bird to roost side by side.
- Nest boxes: about one box for every four or five hens is a common rule of thumb.
- Run: outdoor space to scratch and dust bathe, with shade.
3. More is better
Plan above the minimum. Bigger breeds need more. The Chook Pen Space Calculator helps you lay it out with your own figures.
4. Quick summary
- Check your state code and council rules.
- Perches for all, a nest box per four or five hens.
- A shaded run with room to scratch.
General information only. Check the maker's instructions, and ask your council about approvals.
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