A chicken tractor, also known as a chicken ark, is a movable chicken coop that allows chickens to graze on fresh grass while still providing protection from predators. Building a chicken tractor is an easy and cost-effective solution for anyone who wants to raise chickens in their backyard. In this article, we will guide you on how to make a chicken tractor from scratch.
Materials Needed
Before you start building your chicken tractor, there are a few essential materials that you need:
- 4 pieces of 2x4 lumber (8 feet long)
- 6 pieces of 1x2 lumber (8 feet long)
- 2 pieces of 4x8 plywood
- 1 roll of hardware cloth (1/2 inch mesh)
- 2 gate handles
- 2 gate latches
- 4 hinges
- Box of screws (2-inch)
- Box of screws (1 1/4-inch)
Step 1: Frame
Start by cutting your 2x4 lumber into four pieces, each 6 feet long. These will form the base of your chicken tractor. Cut two additional pieces of 2x4 lumber, each 3 feet long. These will form the front and back of the chicken tractor.Next, screw the two 3-foot pieces onto the ends of the 6-foot pieces to form a rectangular frame. Add two additional 2x4 pieces, evenly spaced, to provide extra support. Use the 2-inch screws to attach the boards together.
Step 2: Walls
Cut your 4x8 plywood into two 4x6-foot pieces. These will form the sides of your chicken tractor. Attach these pieces to the frame using the 1 1/4-inch screws. Be sure to drill pilot holes first to prevent the wood from splitting.Next, cut your hardware cloth to the same size as the sides of your chicken tractor. Staple the hardware cloth onto the plywood sides, making sure all edges are secure. This will prevent anything from getting into the chicken tractor.
Step 3: Roof
Cut two pieces of 1x2 lumber, each 6 feet long. These will form the roof supports. Attach them to the top of the frame using the 2-inch screws. Cut your remaining 1x2 lumber into 2-foot pieces. These will form the roof slats.Place the roof slats evenly spaced across the roof supports and attach them using the 1 1/4-inch screws. Once you have all your slats in place, use your saw to cut them down to size.
Step 4: Door
On the front of your chicken tractor, cut a rectangle out of the plywood and hardware cloth. This will form the entrance for your chickens. Cut two pieces of 1x2 lumber, each 3 feet long. These will form the door frame.Attach the door frame using the 2-inch screws. Next, attach the gate handles and gate latches to the door frame and the front of the chicken tractor. This will allow you to easily open and close the door.
Conclusion
Congratulations! Your chicken tractor is now complete. Place your chickens inside and move the chicken tractor to fresh grass as needed. A chicken tractor is an easy and affordable way to keep your chickens safe while still allowing them to enjoy the benefits of being outside. With this tutorial, you now know how to make a chicken tractor yourself – happy building!
