How big is too big for a coop?

[StinkyAcres]

I've got an 8x10 now which is fine for about 30 birds I'd say. Not to crowded, everyone has room to roost.

30 birds in an 8x10 coop is quite crowded. Most here will agree with me that less than 3 square feet per bird is a recipe for bullying and health problems.

 

[Toothpick]

30 birds in an 8x10 coop is quite crowded. Most here will agree with me that less than 3 square feet per bird is a recipe for bullying and health problems.

Thanks for your concern but they will be fine. Not my first rodeo with a bunch of birds. Plenty of roosting space, 10 nest boxes. Never had a problem.

 

[PoppasGrill]

Thanks for your concern but they will be fine. Not my first rodeo with a bunch of birds. Plenty of roosting space, 10 nest boxes. Never had a problem.

Some birds like crowding in, others are more solitary, just like humans. Some love big cities, while others can’t stand going to the grocery store because of crowds.
We have a coop with only 16 Ladies in it (12x18) and they are not welcoming of new birds, yet another coop ( 10x20) has 27 Ladies in it and have made room for a couple more on the roosting bars.
I understand there are basic guidelines for the comfort and well being of the Ladies, but there are always grey areas.

 

[U_Stormcrow]

Its a "thumb rule" for a reason. Based on experience, averages, and a lot of assumptions. I consider it a good starting point from which to make individual adjustments based on individual circumstances.

Beyond that, its a suggestion - like "gravity sucks" rather than a rule like

 

[PoppasGrill]

Well, we purchased a shed, 14x20, as planned. What wasn’t planned was that it was nice enough to be considered a she-shed, or The Chick-inn, as she’s calling it now.
So we are building a coop, 12x24, off the end of the barn.
Such is life, SO gets a sanctuary, and the other significant ladies in my life get a custom coop, and I get the satisfaction of seeing them happy.

 

[U_Stormcrow]

Well, we purchased a shed, 14x20, as planned. What wasn’t planned was that it was nice enough to be considered a she-shed, or The Chick-inn, as she’s calling it now.
So we are building a coop, 12x24, off the end of the barn.
Such is life, SO gets a sanctuary, and the other significant ladies in my life get a custom coop, and I get the satisfaction of seeing them happy.

"Chick-Inn" LOVE IT.