Sanity check? Fixed Coop/Run sizing thoughts.

[woolyrunnerlady]

I'm looking to raise some meat birds this year, but my yard is not really suitable for a tractor. I have a space where I can set up an 8'x10' run/coop area. (see rough plans I've drawn up below.) I would end up with 48SF of open run, 32SF available under the coop for when the chickens are smaller, and a 32SF enclosed coop. Should I add an additional 2' or 3' to the run? Then I would have 64-72SF of open run. I'm trying to balance cost of materials vs. health of birds.

I'm thinking of supporting 15 birds at a time, starting in May. Likely Red Rangers to avoid the health issues with Cornish Crosses.

 

[paddock36]

I was always told at 2 Sq ft per bird, but 3 is better. My first tractor was about the same size. The fresh grass is always good and I never had a pest issue when I used the tractor. Not that it can't happen, but that was my past experience. With that being said, I think your plans look pretty good.