Chicken Tractor Build Thread

I have started work on my chicken tractor. The whole structure is 12 feet in length, 5 feet in width and 5 feet in height with the actual coop portion being 5' x 5'.

So far it's been a design as you go project. I finished the frame on Tuesday and last night started work on the coop portion. The plan is to construct a removable floor that will allow for easy cleaning then have fixed roosts structured like a ladder leading to the nesting boxes.

Very open to suggestions and will continue to update this thread with new photos as I make more progress.

This is from the first day, it's just the frame built out.



This is from yesterday, we have the platform built out that the removable floor will go on. We put the floor at 18" but the floor frame is 17", so should accommodate even larger birds.

 

Sure! I wrote a tutorial for you:

https://www.chickenforum.com/f39/how-put-photos-into-your-posts-text-54/#post154

 

Yep! Back portion will have 2x4's with the wheels attached and then the front will have a tongue to lift up.

I lifted it yesterday without issue so I am hoping it will be movable by a single person once done.

 

Didn't get much done last night.

Got the floor cut, got the frame for the nest boxes done and a single perch made.

 

Got the nesting boxes done tonight sans the egg door.

Spent some time thinking about the roost. Decided to go with a removable roost in addition to the removable floor only letting the roost not touch the floor so you could remove the floor without messing with the roost. Going to tackle that tomorrow night.

 

I really have no clue. I lifted it and pivoted it last night without wheels with no issue so I think it will work.

 

I am somewhat confident I will be able to move it by hand else I will use the tractor. I got some good all terrain tires and was able to pivot then drag it yesterday.

Made some more progress. I got the nesting boxes finished as well as the egg hatch. Finished the roost and installed it. I got one side skinned with chicken wire. I made the front door but haven't skinned in. Should make a lot of progress fast this week. Ready for it to be done and starting the next phase.

 

Got the wheels installed tonight. All terrain tires from tractor supply with a side axle kit for each support board.

Was able to pick it up and move it around pretty easy, see how well it conveys once it hits dirt though.

 

I just do a little each night after the kids go to bed, probably have another week left. Working on getting the chickens now lined up for shipping.

 

Thanks rob! Should have a lot more photos tonight and this weekend as I will be finishing it.

We will be getting 10 Rhode Island Red and Buff Orpington on the 11th so now we have to be completely finished by then and ready for them.