Hens Roosting On Roof

A good design of roost for chickens to sleep is a staircase concept.

Hens roosting on roof.

Length allow for at least 8 inches of roosting bar per hen. Of course more is better but you will find that especially in the winter. When raising chickens for eggs your roosts need to be higher than your chicken nesting boxes or your hens will be tempted to roost in or on the nesting boxes looking for the highest perch available. Allow for a minimum of 8 inches of roosting bar per hen.

Many studies were done before that law was introduced looking at best husbandry practice for roosting. In europe it was made illegal to keep chickens without perches in 1999 whether in backyard or commercial coops 1. The high shafts are very space sparing. They will feel more sheltered particularly when the shafts are hung in the center.

Chickens need a good roost to sleep by pinterest. You can make a perch from an old ladder or anything else strong enough to hold chickens and rough enough for them to grip but without being so splintery it injures their feet. A roosting post is typically put up high dangling from the roof. They will easily pivot whenever they need.

Wild chickens roost in trees. If you apply it inside the coop it will be the ideal roosting idea for your chicken to enjoy. Those studies provide a wealth of reliable information. Many of our domestic breeds are too heavy to fly up as high as a tree limb but still like to perch off the ground.