Here on the farm we have done much of our own design and construction. Texas summers are especially hot, so we designed our coop to capture as much breeze as possible while still being predator proof. In winter we simply close up the lower ventilation sections with 2’x8′ r-panel or plywood to keep the coop warm.

The frame is 1 1/2″ steel tubing set on 12″ pavers as a “dig proof” base. Heavy duty 2’x8′ sheets of lathe (used in stucco construction) are attached to the tube framing all around the lower level to keep any potential predators from breaking in while allowing plenty of air flow and ventilation. Inside the coop, at the 2′ level we installed a 4’x8′ plywood shelf that creates a raised roosting loft. We fill this with pine shavings and peat moss to create a deep litter system under the roosting bars.