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Ditch the Dirty Coop
Home Improvement

Ditch the Dirty Coop! Build Your Own Mobile Chicken Coop for Happier Hens and Healthier Pastures

Remember that time my prize-winning Rhode Island Red, Henrietta, decided my newly planted tomato seedlings looked like the perfect dust bath? Let’s just say it wasn’t pretty. That’s when I knew I needed a better system than free-ranging alone. That's when I discovered the magic of the chicken tractor! Tired of your chickens tearing up your garden, compacting your soil, and leaving…well, let’s just say “deposits” where you least want them? A chicken tractor might be the solution you've been searching for! I've used them for years on my homestead and they’ve dramatically improved my flock's health, reduced coop cleaning time, and even helped me naturally fertilize different areas of my property.

This blog post will guide you through building your own, cost-effective, and easy-to-move chicken tractor. Let's get started!

What is a Chicken Tractor and Why Build One?

A chicken tractor, also known as a mobile chicken coop, is a portable pen that allows you to move your chickens to fresh pasture regularly. This design is lightweight yet durable, making it easy to move even for one person. It offers protection from predators and the elements while providing access to grass, bugs, and sunshine – all essential for happy and healthy chickens. This particular design measures approximately 6ft x 4ft x 3ft, a perfect size for 4-6 chickens.

Materials List: Building Your Chicken Palace on Wheels

Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to build your chicken tractor. I've included links where possible to make sourcing materials easier! (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Estimated Total Cost: Approximately $223 (Prices may vary depending on location and supplier.)

Tools You'll Need: Gearing Up for Success

  • Safety Glasses
  • Work Gloves
  • Measuring Tape
  • Pencil
  • Circular Saw or Hand Saw
  • Drill with Drill Bits
  • Staple Gun
  • Hammer
  • Square
  • Level

Safety First! Always wear safety glasses and work gloves when operating power tools. Be mindful of your surroundings and take breaks when needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Building Your Chicken Tractor

Here's a detailed guide to building your chicken tractor. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have a functional and attractive mobile coop in no time.

Step 1: Building the Base Frame

  • Cut two 2" x 4" pieces to 6 feet long and two to 4 feet long.
  • Using the square, ensure your corners are perfectly square. This is crucial for the stability of the entire structure.
  • Attach the 2" x 4"s together using 3" exterior wood screws to form a 6ft x 4ft rectangle. Predrill the holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
    • Why this is important: A solid, square base provides a stable foundation for the rest of the chicken tractor.

Base Frame (Replace with your image)

Step 2: Adding the Corner Supports

  • Cut four 2" x 4" pieces to 3 feet long.
  • Attach these vertically to the inside corners of the base frame, using 3" screws. Make sure they are flush with the top of the base frame.
    • Why this is important: These supports provide the necessary height and stability for the walls and roof.

Corner Supports (Replace with your image)

Step 3: Building the Top Frame

  • Repeat Step 1 to build another 6ft x 4ft rectangle using 2" x 4" lumber.
  • Attach this top frame to the top of the corner supports using 3" screws.
    • Why this is important: The top frame ties the structure together and provides a secure base for the roof.

Top Frame (Replace with your image)

Step 4: Adding the Hardware Cloth

  • Carefully measure and cut the hardware cloth to fit the sides and bottom of the frame. Overlap the edges slightly for added security.
  • Use a staple gun to attach the hardware cloth to the frame. Ensure the staples are close together for maximum predator protection. Pay special attention to the corners and edges.
    • Why this is important: Hardware cloth is essential for keeping your chickens safe from predators like foxes, raccoons, and dogs.

Attaching Hardware Cloth (Replace with your image)

Step 5: Building the Door

  • Cut four pieces of 2" x 4" lumber to create a door frame (adjust dimensions to fit your desired door size, typically around 2ft x 2ft).
  • Assemble the door frame using 3" screws.
  • Cover the door frame with hardware cloth, securing it with staples.
  • Attach the door to the frame using hinges and install a latch to keep it securely closed.
    • Why this is important: A secure door allows easy access for cleaning and chicken wrangling!

Building the Door (Replace with your image)

Step 6: Installing the Roof

  • Cut the plywood to the size of the top frame (6ft x 4ft).
  • Attach the plywood to the top frame using 1 1/4" screws. Overhang the edges slightly to provide better weather protection.
    • Why this is important: The roof provides shade and protection from rain and snow.

Installing the Roof (Replace with your image)

Step 7: Adding the Wheels

  • Attach the heavy-duty casters to the bottom corners of the base frame using screws. Ensure they are securely fastened.
    • Why this is important: The wheels make it easy to move the chicken tractor to fresh pasture.

Adding the Wheels (Replace with your image)

Step 8: Adding the Roost

  • Cut a piece of 1" x 4" lumber to fit across the inside of the chicken tractor, about 1 foot off the ground.
  • Attach the roost securely to the frame using screws.
    • Why this is important: Chickens need a place to roost at night.

Adding the Roost (Replace with your image)

Step 9: Painting/Sealing (Optional)

  • Apply exterior paint or wood sealer to the entire chicken tractor to protect the wood from the elements and extend its lifespan.
    • Why this is important: Protecting the wood will help your chicken tractor last longer.

Painting the Chicken Tractor (Replace with your image)

Step 10: Introduce Your Chickens!

  • Once the paint or sealer is dry, introduce your chickens to their new mobile home!

Happy Chickens! (Replace with your image)

Troubleshooting Tips: Overcoming Challenges

  • Problem: Hardware cloth not staying in place.
    • Solution: Use more staples and ensure they are driven in straight. You can also use washers under the staples for added holding power.
  • Problem: Chicken tractor is too heavy to move easily.
    • Solution: Ensure you are using the recommended lumber dimensions. Consider using smaller wheels for easier maneuverability on softer ground.
  • Problem: Chickens are escaping.
    • Solution: Double-check all seams and edges of the hardware cloth. Make sure the door latch is secure. Chickens are escape artists!

Customization Options: Making it Your Own

  • Larger Door: Consider making the door larger for easier cleaning and access.
  • Removable Roost: Make the roost removable for easier cleaning.
  • Automatic Chicken Door: Install an automatic chicken door for added convenience.
  • Different Roofing Material: Explore alternative roofing materials like corrugated metal for increased durability.
  • Integrated Feeder/Waterer: Design a built-in feeder and waterer system to minimize mess.

Conclusion: Reap the Rewards of Your DIY Chicken Tractor

Building a chicken tractor is a rewarding project that offers numerous benefits for your homestead and your backyard chickens. You'll enjoy healthier poultry health, reduced coop cleaning, improved pasture rotation, and naturally fertilized soil. It’s a fantastic way to embrace homesteading and increase your self-sufficiency. So, grab your tools, gather your materials, and get building your own DIY chicken coop!

Now it's your turn! Share photos of your finished chicken tractor or mobile chicken coop in the comments below! What other DIY projects would you like to see featured on Better Homes and Harvests? Let us know!

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