Building a coop on challenging terrain. How do I plan for ventilation?

[GardenGuru42]

I’m working on a 4x12 open-air chicken coop in a tight, sloped space with no flat ground and buried electric lines. The front is open for airflow, but I’m considering adding vents on the closed end (above the roosts) for better circulation. Does that make sense, and how much vent space would be enough? Would love advice, especially for predator-proofing and managing ventilation in this unique setup!

[TheEggMaven]

Your coop design sounds both creative and practical given the challenges of your terrain.
For ventilation, yes, it makes sense to add vents to the west wall above the roosts to allow airflow to escape.
Since you’re in a mild climate, you could go with 2–3 small vents.
Maybe 6–8 inches wide, evenly spaced near the top of the wall.

[Coopinator]

Yes, vents on the west wall are a good idea to help air escape.
Just make sure they’re high enough above the roosts to avoid drafts hitting the chickens directly.
A few small, covered vents should work perfectly alongside the open front.

[EggsAndGiggles]

That setup sounds great! Adding vents above the roosts is definitely a smart move.

[PoultryPassion]

For predator-proofing, use hardware cloth over the vents instead of chicken wire. Its much stronger and keeps out raccoons and other pests.

[CoopAlchemist]

Consider using soffit ventstheyre discreet, provide good airflow, and are easy to predator-proof with hardware cloth.

[SustainableSoul]

If you're worried about predators, install vents with sliding covers so you can close them at night when predators are most active.

[CluckAndGrow]

Consider using soffit vents-they're discreet, provide good airflow, and are easy to predator-proof with hardware cloth.

[DownyDreamkeeper]

Adding a roof overhang above the vents can help keep rain out while still allowing airflow.

[GardenFowlGuru]

I'd recommend placing vents high on the walls to prevent drafts at chicken level while still allowing hot air to escape.