The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: Dans on May 30, 2016, 12:47:08 am

Title: Cover for coop entrance?
Post by: Dans on May 30, 2016, 12:47:08 am

I'm sure I've read about covers for the entrances to chicken coops, I think it was in relation to stopping wild birds coming in. Problem is I can only remember the idea and not the details (i.e. materials, does it need to be cut into strips). My google searches are failing me too.

My issue is that I'm having some nest box issues and we placed a new nest box in the coop (converted shed) but it is opposite the entrance and I think that is putting them off (lack of privacy).

I was wondering if I could use an old pillow case or sheet over the pop-hole to give them privacy. Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

Dans

Title: Re: Cover for coop entrance?
Post by: Blondie on May 30, 2016, 06:49:29 am

I use to have a old curtain placed over the coop which hung down creating a much smaller hole for them to get through. The quickly learnt but I don't think they would have pushed through something. This was done for warmth I the winter and not to lock light but principle is the same

Could you put more nest boxes in and in different locations around the shed? That way they have more choice and should select one to go in.

Title: Re: Cover for coop entrance?
Post by: Marches Farmer on May 31, 2016, 07:35:46 pm

I use clear plastic warehouse strips- the chickens are heavy enough to push through.

Title: Re: Cover for coop entrance?
Post by: Dave C on May 31, 2016, 08:52:11 pm

What about a roofing sheet above the entrance, it will cast some shade and protect the entrance from rain.

Title: Re: Cover for coop entrance?
Post by: Dans on June 02, 2016, 09:36:39 pm

Where could I get warehouse strips from? I take it something like a pillowcase wouldn't work.

I think I've arranged the house badly as there's not really another spot for it.

On the upside one of the chickens has started using the external nest box and one has started the using the one opposite the pop hole. 

I'll have a look at putting a roof over the pop hole.

Thanks guys

Dans

Title: Re: Cover for coop entrance?
Post by: william_wt on June 02, 2016, 11:34:20 pm

When I had crows helping themselves to eggs, I nailed a plastic bag to the top of the door and cut it into strips from the bottom. The chickens weren't bothered by it but the crows didn't steal any more eggs. A similar setup to stop the crows eating the pellets helped a bit, but not completely.
William