Keeping chickens in your backyard has become a popular trend in recent years, and it’s no surprise: they provide fresh eggs, entertainment, and can even help with organic gardening. However, chickens need protection from predators and the elements, as well as ample space to roam. Building a chicken tractor is a great solution to these issues, and it’s fairly easy to do yourself with the right materials and know-how.
Materials
Before starting to build a chicken tractor, make sure you have all the materials you’ll need. These may include:
- Chicken wire
- Wooden boards or PVC pipes
- Wood screws
- Hinges
- Zip ties
- Chicken feeder and waterer
- Chicken bedding or straw
The amount and size of each material needed will vary depending on the size of your chicken tractor. Take careful measurements of the area you plan to build the tractor in and choose the appropriate materials.
Building Process
1. Build the frame: The frame of the chicken tractor can be made from wooden boards or PVC pipes. Cut the boards or pipes to the desired length and attach them using wood screws. Make sure the frame is sturdy enough to support the weight of the chicken wire and any chickens inside.
2. Add the wheels: Adding wheels to your chicken tractor makes it easier to move around your yard. Screw two wheels onto one end of the frame and two more wheels onto the opposite end. Make sure the wheels have a locking mechanism to keep the tractor stationary when not in motion.
3. Cover in chicken wire: Lay the chicken wire over the frame and attach it using zip ties. Make sure the chicken wire is taut and secure.
4. Create a door: Cut a section of chicken wire to serve as a door and attach hinges to one side. Attach the other side of the hinges to the frame of the tractor, so the door can swing open and closed. Make sure to add a latch to keep the door secure when closed.
5. Add a feeder and waterer: Install a chicken feeder and waterer inside the tractor. This will help keep your chickens healthy and hydrated.
6. Add bedding: Create a comfortable space for your chickens by adding bedding to the bottom of the tractor. You can use straw or other types of chicken bedding.
Uses
A chicken tractor can serve many purposes:
- Protection from predators: The chicken wire covering the tractor will keep predators such as foxes, raccoons, and birds of prey from preying on your chickens.
- Mobility: The wheels on the tractor make it easy to move around the yard, allowing your chickens to feast on fresh grass and bugs while still staying safely enclosed.
- Garden helper: Place your chicken tractor over garden beds that need to be plowed or weeded. The chickens will do the work for you, fertilizing as they go.
Conclusion
A chicken tractor is a great way to keep your chickens safe, healthy, and happy while still allowing them to roam and peck in the grass. Building one yourself is a fun project that can be completed in a few hours, and the end result is a unique and functional addition to your backyard.
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