If you are a backyard farmer or simply someone who wants to keep poultry around their home, then you need to build a chicken tractor. A chicken tractor is a portable enclosure that you can move around your yard, allowing your chickens access to fresh grass and bugs, while at the same time protecting them from predators. Chicken tractors can be expensive to buy, but building your own can be an easy and affordable DIY project.
Materials
The first step to building a chicken tractor is gathering your materials. You will need some basic tools such as a saw, drill, hammer, and screwdrivers, as well as the following materials:
\t- Wooden boards: You will need at least eight 8-foot boards, two 10-foot boards, and four 4-foot boards.
\t- Chicken wire: You will need enough chicken wire to cover the entire coop and run area.
\t- Hinges: You will need two sets of hinges to attach the door to the coop.
\t- Latches: You will need two latches to keep the coop securely closed.
\t- Wheels: You will need four small wheels to attach to the bottom of the coop.
Dimensions
The size of your chicken tractor will depend on the number of chickens you plan to keep. A good rule of thumb is to allow for 2-4 square feet of space per chicken. For example, if you plan to keep 4 chickens, you will need a coop that is 8-16 square feet. The run area should be at least twice the size of the coop to provide ample space for your flock to roam and forage.
Construction
Once you have your materials and dimensions figured out, it’s time to start building your chicken tractor. Here are the basic steps:
\t- Start by building the base. Use two of the 8-foot boards and two of the 4-foot boards to create a rectangle. Secure the corners with screws.
\t- Attach the remaining 8-foot boards to the corners of the base to create the walls of the coop. Secure them with screws.
\t- Cut a small door out of one of the walls. Attach hinges and a latch to create a secure yet easy-to-open door.
\t- Cut the chicken wire to the appropriate size and attach it to the walls of the coop and the run area. Make sure to use staples or nails to secure it tightly.
\t- Add the roof. Use the remaining 8-foot boards and the two 10-foot boards to create a slanted roof. Secure it to the top of the walls with screws.
\t- Add wheels to the bottom of the coop to make it easy to move around your yard.
Conclusion
Building a chicken tractor is a fun and easy DIY project that anyone can do. By following these simple steps, you can create a safe and secure home for your flock, while also giving them access to fresh grass and bugs. Not only will your chickens be happier and healthier, but you’ll also reap the rewards of fresh eggs and a sustainable source of protein. So why not give it a try and build your own chicken tractor today?"
