Ready, Set, Roost: Chicken Coops for Happy Hens

Which came first: The chicken or the egg farmer? Though once upon a time chickens were relegated to the countryside, the urban backyard chicken enthusiast is becoming increasingly common. And though it’s debatable which is more financially advantageous, raising chickens or buying eggs, there’s no question that fresh eggs are tastier than the store-bought variety.

If you’ve been considering raising chickens, spring is the perfect time to start your backyard brood! And with spring but a few weeks away, now is a dandy time to procure a coop. Whether you have an established flock or you’re starting from scratch, a coop is essential for your flappers’ comfort and safety. Continue reading to check out A-Z’s list of recommended chicken coops, from economical to va-va-va-voom.

Aivituvin Wooden Chicken Coop on Wheels

Aivituvin, which entered the market as a manufacturer of rabbit houses, has expanded its repertoire to include houses for all sorts of pets, including chickens. Their basic coop includes a weatherproof nesting box, galvanized wire fencing, and proper ventilation, keeping your layers comfy and safe. Assembly is required, but reportedly easy and quick. Heavy-duty metal wheels and long handles allow you to move the coop to provide better foraging opportunities — all of this for $169.99. Aivituvin has options for larger flocks as well.

Breltam Portable Wooden Hen House with Waterproof Roof & Nesting Box

This little number from Breltam features quality wood construction coated with eco-friendly paint that is designed to withstand even the worst weather conditions. Cleaning is a cinch with Breltam’s pull-out nesting trays. This model isn’t equipped with wheels. However, at just 66 pounds, a couple of adults could move it to greener pastures. Customer reviews suggest that shipping is rapid and assembly is simple. This small coop is $209.98, but Breltam has bigger coops to accommodate bigger broods.

Merry Products Free Range Chicken Coop

Something about this coop reminds me of a food truck, which got me to thinking that an egg-based food truck isn’t a bad idea. I’d call it Humpty Dumpty’s. But I digress. This coop from Merry Products will house up to 12 hens. Its eight nesting boxes and hallway for roosting are raised for added safety and comfort. This mobile coop, manufactured of Canadian hemlock, will keep your hens foraging happily. Available for order from the factory here for $399.99.

Paw Hut Walk-in Chicken Coop

This stationery coop from Paw Hut is 112 pounds and offers backyard egg farmers a chance to commune with their layers. With 56 square feet of space under a 6.1-foot-high roof, you can safely spend quality time with your brood. Designed with flocks of 8-12 in mind, this coop features an open-air design but comes with a UV/Waterproof cover. Some assembly is required, and be aware that the $499.99 price tag includes but one nesting box. Additional boxes are available starting at $59.99. Paw Hut has other designs, too.

The Wagon by Nestera

This non-traditional tractor-style chicken coop from Nestera is made from UV-resistant recycled plastic. Not only is it super sturdy, but the smooth plastic surface deters mites, which helps keep your brood healthy and content. The Wagon, designed to hold up to five hens, is easily moved for foraging. Upgrades include an automatic door opener and a WiFi camera so that you can check on your feathered family wherever you may be. Assembly is required, but according to reviews, the directions are straightforward. Check out The Wagon ($1,299) and Nestera‘s other chicken-centric merch.

Roost and Root Backyard Chicken Coop Model 2

Keep as many as five hens in this attractive coop from Roost and Root. The Model 2 is part of Roost and Root’s compact series. These folks are in business to house chickens, with a variety of styles and models that will accommodate 40+ birds. Roost and Root coops of all sizes are handcrafted in Texas of stainless steel hardware and cedar, which is weather resistant, even without painting, for years of service. Assembly is required, but pre-drilled holes ease the reported two-hour process. With a fully assembled weight of 125 pounds, Roost and Root’s Model 2 coop can be moved by a couple of fit individuals for improved foraging. See what Roost and Root has to offer besides the Model 2 ($1,399).

Eglu Pro

Omlet has left nothing to chance when it comes to the comfort and safety of your flock, and the rave reviews speak to the chicken-friendly design and durability of this less-traditional coop, the Eglu Pro. From the angle of the ladder to the ambient light in the nesting boxes, I marveled at the attention to detail. The Eglu Pro will house up to 10 large hens and comes with easily removable nesting boxes and droppings trays for easy cleaning. Omlet backs up their coops with a 10-year warranty. Assembly is required, but a step-by-step video walks you through the process. Beyond the standard coop, Omlet has all sorts of accessories to make your chicken experience amazing. Find the Eglu Pro ($2,149) and all the bells and whistles at Omlet.