How Many Chickens Can I Keep in My Coop? Need Advice!

[FowlPlayMaster]

Hello everyone! Im a first-time chicken keeper, and Im in the process of setting up for my first flock. Ill be getting chickens in about a month, and Ive been feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the conflicting advice on the internet. Ive built a custom chicken coop thats 4 feet wide, 4 feet deep, and 6 feet tall at the lowest point. Its also insulated and raised 24 inches off the ground. For the run, Im finishing an 8x4 foot covered area, plus theres an additional 4 feet of space under the coop for dust bathing and scratching.

My chickens will also have access to a large fenced area where they can roam freely most of the year. Ive got 4 chickens on hold from a local breeder, but Im wondering if I can add more or if 4 is the right number for the size of my coop. Ive seen different recommendations about how much space each chicken needs, and Im really confused. Could anyone give me advice on how many chickens I can comfortably keep in my setup?

Thanks so much for your help!

[FluffyFeatherFiend]

It's great you're planning ahead for your chickens! For your 4x4 coop, 4 chickens should be a comfortable fit, especially if they have the extra space in the run and under the coop. Many people recommend around 2-3 square feet per chicken in the coop and around 8-10 square feet in the run. Since you have a lot of extra space outside, you could potentially add a couple more chickens, but I'd stick with 4 to keep them happy and avoid overcrowding.

[NestNurturer]

I think you'll be fine with 4 chickens for now. The extra space for free-range time is a big plus! If you do choose to add more, you might want to ensure the coop can still give them each enough room to move around comfortably.

[HenThusiast]

I would suggest sticking with the 4 chickens for now. Your coop and run size are good for that number. Adding more might make things a bit crowded, especially in winter when they'll be indoors more.

[GreenThumbed]

I personally think 4 chickens will be perfect for your space, and with the outdoor run and dust-bathing area, they'll be happy. If you do add more, just be sure that they still have enough space to move around comfortably.

[FreeRangeDreamer]

You can definitely add a couple more if you'd like! The key is that they have enough room to spread out. With 4 chickens, you have the minimum space for your size coop, but more space in your run and outdoor area helps. Adding more chickens should be fine, just ensure the coop still allows for easy movement.

[DustyTalons]

Given your setup, I would say you're good with the 4 chickens, but you could probably add one or two more. Since they have a spacious run and will be able to free-range, you could give them a little more room if needed.

[Eggspeditionist]

I would stay with 4 for now. The space you've provided is perfect for them to thrive. Adding more chickens could make them feel cramped, especially with winter approaching when they'll be spending more time indoors.

[ChickWrangler]

From my experience, 4 chickens should be a great number for your setup, but if you're thinking of adding more, I'd suggest no more than 5-6. It's always a good idea to have more space than you think they'll need.

[FeatherFiesta]

It sounds like your chickens will have plenty of space! I'd start with the 4, and if everything is working well, you can always consider adding a couple more. Just be mindful of overcrowding inside the coop.