Switching coops

[JFF12]

I have two coops side by side. My flocks have dwindled in numbers (coyotes, hawks, etc) so I’m wondering if I tear one of the coops down will the chickens that normally roost in there instinctively go to the other coop? There’s only one rooster so that shouldn’t be a problem. It’s just that the coop that’s currently housing the fewer number of birds is bigger, doesn’t hold water as bad, and is much easier to clean. I’d love to get all the chickens to roost in it. Or will it confuse them and they end up who knows where?

 

[rosemarythyme]

Do the birds normally share run or yard space and are all friendly with each other? If they're essentially one flock but just happen to sleep separately, I would imagine that some of the hens from the torn down coop would follow the others to the second coop. And some will probably lie down in confusion in front of where their old coop used to be, so will need to be manually put into the second coop.

 

[Mrs. K]

Just shut the coop up, and they will pick the next best thing, which should be the other coop. It really won't bother them.

 

[JFF12]

The rooster bunks in the coop I’m wanting to tear down. Both runs are separate but all have access to either run/coop during the day (they free range). The coop I’m wanting to keep (the bigger one) has a few girls sleeping in it but their rooster is now gone. I think I’m going to tear down the smaller coop and hope the remaining rooster is smart enough to move his girls in the new coop. I would imagine the other ladies will gravitate to him anyway. Both flocks used to free range together “somewhat” so they’re all familiar. Thanks guys.