Keeping chickens can be one of the most rewarding hobbies, providing fresh eggs, natural pest control, and plenty of entertainment. However, one of the critical decisions you’ll face as a new chicken owner is choosing the right chicken coop. This guide will help you select the best chicken coop for six chickens, ensuring they are safe, healthy, and happy.
Chicken Coop For 6 Chickens
| Image | Name | Rating | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Flock Mobilizer |  | |
 | Formex Flockhouse | | |
 | Cluckwagon Red Edition | |
Flock Mobilizer
If you’re in the market for a chicken coop to fit 6 of your feathered friends, we’d recommend checking out the Chicken Coop Mobile Wooden Hen House with Nesting Box. This affordable option provides ample space for your chickens to roam and exercise, with a large activity area measuring 20.8 ft².
The coop’s design features multiple ventilation doors and a ramp for easy entry and exit, as well as a removable sliding tray for effortless cleaning. The fir wood construction ensures a sturdy and durable structure, while the asphalt roof provides protection from water penetration. Additionally, the nesting box is divided into three spacious sections with safety features such as wire meshing to prevent predators from accessing the bottom.
Formex Flockhouse
If you’re looking to set up a chicken coop for 6 chickens, we’d recommend checking out the Formex Large Chicken Coop Backyard Hen House. This coop is specifically designed to accommodate between 4 and 6 large chickens or 6-12 bantams, making it perfect for your flock.
The Formex coop stands out with its sturdy construction, featuring water and chemical resistant materials that can withstand the elements. It’s also made in the USA, ensuring a certain level of quality control. Plus, the assembly process is straightforward – no tools required! Just snap the pieces together, and you’ll have a functional and easy-to-maintain coop for your chickens to call home.
Cluckwagon Red Edition
This chicken coop (item 136) is a great option if you’re in the market for a new home for your flock. Made from durable wooden material, it’s designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring a safe and sheltered space for your chickens.
The coop features several convenient design elements that make caring for your chickens a breeze. The wheels on the bottom of the coop allow you to easily move it around the yard, providing a fresh environment for your poultry. Additionally, pull-out trays help with quick and efficient cleaning, low-maintenance materials require minimal upkeep, and the metal wire doors lock securely for predator protection.
PawHut Poultry Palace
PawHut’s Wooden Chicken Coop is a well-designed option that should suit your needs for six chickens.
The coop’s extra large size provides ample space for the birds to roam and exercise, with two perches to keep them active. The nesting box on both sides of the mid-area adds a convenient feature for egg collection. Additionally, the coop’s multiple entrances, side window for fresh air, top that can be easily cleaned, and multiple doors make maintenance and chicken handling effortless. A plastic wave roof, painted fir wood walls, metal mesh, and shade-providing design also ensure weather protection.
Cluck Hut
This chicken coop is a solid option for anyone looking to provide a secure and spacious home for their flock. With its two lockable metal trays, users can easily clean out droppings without having to physically remove everything at once.
We’d recommend this product as a viable choice for anyone with 6 or more chickens in need of a decent coop. However, it does look like the manufacturer may have slightly underestimated the capacity of the coop – as listed as accommodating 8-10 chickens. Nevertheless, it should be able to comfortably house and provide for the needs of 6 or so birds.
Fowl Haven
The 122 Large Chicken Coop with Nest Box and Removable Tray is a great option for anyone looking to provide a safe and comfortable home for their flock. With plenty of room for up to six chickens, this coop offers spacious accommodation that allows your chickens to roam freely.
This coop’s design makes it easy to care for your chickens too. The removable tray at the bottom lifts out easily for quick cleaning, while dual doors provide easy access to the interior for collecting eggs or tending to the chickens. The nesting box door also allows retrieval of eggs without disturbing the hens. Plus, the sturdy wooden construction and waterproof roof ensure that this coop will withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a great investment for any backyard chicken keeper.
GutiMobile Coop
The GUTINNEEN Chicken Coop with Wheels is a great option for those looking to provide a comfortable and convenient home for their flock of chickens. Its large size, measuring 78.4′ L x 27.6′ W x 40.6′ H, makes it an ideal choice for up to six hens.
This coop’s features are designed with ease of use and maintenance in mind. The expanded pen under the nesting box provides ample space and prevents collapse over time, while the side door control allows for quick access between the run and resting area. Additionally, the coop comes equipped with a 2-section nesting box for effortless egg collection and a metal tray for easy cleaning. Multiple doors also make it simple to feed, clean, and catch your chickens as needed.
Umax Farmhouse
The U-MAX Large Chicken Coop, 123 is a well-rounded option for those looking to house their flock of 6 chickens.
This coop boasts a spacious 9.6 ft² interior with multiple amenities such as perches for comfort, nesting boxes, and removable trays for easy cleaning and maintenance. The exterior features multiple doors and heavy-duty fencing that allows for airflow while keeping predators out.
Coop Deluxe
Considering the needs of 6 chickens in terms of both space and facilities, I’d recommend the 117″ L Extra Large Chicken Coop with Run from this product. The coop offers a spacious run area of 22 square feet which is adequate for 2-3 birds per square foot, hence suitable for up to 6 chickens. Additionally, it features a large 13 square foot resting place for the birds which will ensure they have plenty of space to rest.
The product’s numerous amenities also caught my attention. The coop has four independent nesting boxes for egg-laying and easy collection with top cover access which is something I can imagine would save you time. Furthermore, the pull-out tray simplifies cleaning procedures and ensures a clean living environment for your flock. Considering its sturdy construction, assembly shouldn’t be too difficult.
Understanding the Needs of Six Chickens
Before diving into the specific features of a chicken coop, itâs essential to understand the needs of your six chickens. Chickens require:
Space: A general rule of thumb is to allow about 4 square feet per chicken inside the coop and 10 square feet per bird in an outdoor run. For six chickens, this means you should aim for at least 24 square feet inside the coop and 60 square feet outdoors.
Ventilation: Proper airflow is crucial to prevent ammonia buildup and maintain a comfortable environment. Chickens are sensitive to heat and humidity, so ensure your coop has adequate ventilation without causing drafts.
Protection: Your chickens need protection from predators such as raccoons, foxes, and hawks. A solid, well-built coop with secure locks and reinforced doors will safeguard your flock.
Nesting Boxes: Chickens like to have private spaces to lay their eggs. Youâll need at least one nesting box for every three hens, so for six chickens, three boxes should suffice.
Roosting Space: Chickens are natural roosters and prefer to sleep off the ground. Providing sufficient roosting spaceâaround 8-12 inches per birdâis essential for their comfort and well-being.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Coop
When selecting a chicken coop for six chickens, size is one of the most fundamental considerations. Based on the standard recommendations:
Coop Area: As mentioned, aim for at least 24 square feet for the interior. This could translate into a 4×6 ft coop or a slightly larger 4×8 ft structure. Remember, hens can get stressed in cramped quarters, so itâs advisable to err on the side of spaciousness.
Run Area: For outdoor runs, the recommended space is about 60 square feet. A typical run of approximately 6×10 ft will give your chickens room to scratch and explore outside, which is essential for their physical and mental health.
Material Choices for Your Chicken Coop
The materials you use can significantly impact the durability and safety of your chicken coop. Here are some common materials and their pros and cons:
Wooden Coops
Pros:
Aesthetically pleasing and customizable.
Good insulation properties, keeping chickens warm in winter.
Cons:
Can be prone to decay and pests if not treated properly.
Requires regular maintenance, such as painting and sealing.
Metal Coops
Pros:
Durable and resistant to weather elements.
Less likely to harbor pests resulting from wood decay.
Cons:
Poor insulation properties may lead to extreme temperatures in some climates.
Less customizable in terms of design and aesthetic appeal.
Plastic Coops
Pros:
Very easy to clean and maintain.
Typically lightweight and portable.
Cons:
May not have the same aesthetic appeal as wood.
Some lower-quality models can be less durable in harsh weather.
Ultimately, the choice of material should align with your budget, aesthetic preferences, and local climate conditions.
Coop Design Features to Consider
The design of the chicken coop can affect not only the chickensâ comfort but also your ease of maintenance. Here are essential features to look for:
Adequate Ventilation
Ensure your coop has windows or vents that you can open and close. Look for designs that offer adjustable ventilation to help with different weather conditions, ensuring good air circulation without causing drafts.
Easy Access
Choose a coop design that allows easy access for both you and the chickens. A pop door for the chickens and a larger human-access door for cleaning, feeding, and egg collection are crucial features. Some coops also have hinged roofs that open for easy cleaning.
Nesting Boxes and Roosts
Plan for comfortable nesting boxes that are elevated and lined with straw or shavings to provide comfort and insulation. Roosting bars should be placed higher than the nesting boxes to encourage hens to use them for sleeping rather than laying eggs.
Secure Exterior
The coop should be completely enclosed to prevent predators from getting in. Look for designs with sturdy floors, reinforced doors, and secure hardware cloth instead of chicken wire, which can be easily breached.
A Run Space
If you donât have a free-range option, opt for a coop that includes an attached run. This will give your chickens fresh air and space to roam while remaining protected.
Location, Location, Location
The placement of your chicken coop is as essential as its design. Here are some vital factors to consider:
Accessibility
Ensure the coop is easily accessible for daily feeding, watering, and egg collection. If it’s too far away, you may skip maintenance tasks, which can lead to issues.
Sunlight and Shade
Chickens thrive in natural light but can also overheat in the summer. Place your coop where it can take advantage of shade during the hottest parts of the day, while still receiving sunlight for warmth during colder months.
Drainage
Proper drainage is vital for maintaining a dry and clean environment. Consider placing your coop on a slight slope or in a location with good drainage to prevent muddy conditions during rainy weather.
Budget Considerations
Your budget will significantly influence your choices while selecting a chicken coop. Wooden coops can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars based on quality and craftsmanship, while metal coops may offer durability but can also be cost-prohibitive.
Here are some budget considerations:
DIY vs. Pre-made: If you’re handy, building your own coop can save money and allow you to customize it entirely. There are also many plans available online to guide you in construction. Pre-made coops often come with warranties and guarantees, providing peace of mind, especially for first-time chicken owners.
Quality Over Price: It may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option; remember that a good-quality coop will last longer, require less maintenance, and ultimately save you money in the long run.
Consider Hidden Costs: Donât forget to budget for additional items such as bedding, waterers, feeders, and regular maintenance supplies. Initial startup costs can be more expensive than expected, so planning ahead is vital for a successful chicken-keeping experience.
Maintenance and Cleaning
The ease of cleaning your coop is crucial for the health of your chickens and your convenience. Look for coops that offer:
Removable trays: Some coops come with removable trays underneath the roosting area, making cleaning much easier.
Interior design: Smooth surfaces without too many corners and gaps will help in maintaining sanitation.
Access points: As mentioned earlier, large access doors simplify the overall maintenance routine.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Coop
Choosing the best chicken coop for six chickens involves careful consideration of various factors such as size, materials, design, and budget. Your coop should be a place where your chickens can live comfortably and safely while making it convenient for you to manage their care.
