Homesteading and backyard farming have gained popularity in recent years. One of the most important aspects of raising farm animals is providing them with adequate shelter. For those interested in raising chickens for meat, a chicken tractor is a great option. A chicken tractor is similar to a mobile coop that allows chickens to forage on fresh grass while still offering protection from predators.
Materials
Materials needed for a basic chicken tractor include:
- Wooden boards or PVC pipes for the frame
- Chicken wire or hardware cloth for the sides
- Plywood or corrugated metal roofing for the roof
- Wheels to attach to the bottom for ease of movement
- Screws, nails, and a drill to put it all together
Building the Tractor
1. Begin by building the frame. Cut the wooden boards or PVC pipes to the desired length and connect them using screws or joints.
2. Affix chicken wire or hardware cloth to the sides of the frame using staples or nails. Be sure to overlap the edges of the wire for added protection.
3. Make a door by cutting a section of the wire and attaching hinges and a latch.
4. Attach the wheels to the bottom of the tractor using screws or bolts.
5. Add a roof using plywood or corrugated metal. Be sure to leave enough overhang to protect the sides from rain.
Size of the Tractor
When building a chicken tractor, it is important to consider the number of birds that will live inside. For meat birds, it is recommended to provide at least two square feet per bird. For example, a chicken tractor that will house 10 birds should be at least 20 square feet. Additionally, the height of the tractor should allow the birds to stand up straight and fluff their feathers without touching the top.
Moving the Tractor
One of the main benefits of a chicken tractor is its mobility. This allows the chickens to forage on fresh grass while still being protected. To move the tractor, simply lift one end and pull it to the desired location. It is recommended to move the tractor daily to prevent the chickens from overgrazing one spot and to provide fresh forage.
Conclusion
Building a chicken tractor is a great way to provide shelter and protection for meat birds while allowing them to forage and move about. With a few basic materials and some simple tools, a functional and mobile chicken tractor can be built in no time.