Raising backyard chickens has become increasingly popular, and the two main housing options are chicken tractors and coops. One is movable pens where coops are stationary structures. So, people consider chicken tractors as the best!
But, why chicken tractors are better than static coops? Chicken tractors are movable, bottomless pens on wheels or skids. It allows chickens to access fresh ground, eat bugs, and fertilize the soil with their manure. Tractors are simple and cost-effective. But coops are permanent, enclosed structures.
Both options have pros and cons, and the choice depends on various factors. Learn from the article to make your best decision when raising chickens!
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Chicken Tractors vs Coops: What’s the Best Choice for Chickens?
You heard people are shifting to chicken tractors rather than regular coop, right? Well, it’s happening as tractors have a different set of benefits what’s much better than static coop.
Let me make it clear to you in detail!
Rotational Grazing and Soil Fertility
I have a chicken tractor and love it. The tractor allows for rotational grazing, providing my chickens with fresh forage and preventing soil depletion.
My chickens enjoy grazing on grasses, weeds, and bugs in new areas. Their scratching aerates the soil, and their manure acts as a natural fertilizer. In contrast, static coops confine chickens to the same patch of land. It’s what leads to bare, compacted ground and a buildup of parasites and pathogens.
Pest and Predator Management
The tractor also helps with pest management. It disrupts pest insect cycles like flies and mites by relocating frequently. My chickens act as biological pest control, eating insects, larvae, and weed seeds. While tractors have open bottoms and movable fencing, they aren’t as secure as coops.
Coops provide better protection against predators like foxes, raccoons, and hawks. But I feel the benefits of the tractor outweigh this drawback.
Space Utilization and Cost
Chicken tractors maximize land usage by rotating around yards, fields, or orchards. They take up temporary space and are relatively inexpensive. Tractors use simple frames with refinished materials, making them cost-effective.
Static coops, on the other hand, require sturdier construction with nest boxes, roosting bars, and proper ventilation, leading to higher costs. Maintenance is also lower for tractors, as I don’t have to clean permanent coop areas.
Protection from Elements
One downside of tractors is exposure to the elements. They don’t provide refuge from rain, cold, wind, or sun. During bad weather, I use supplemental shelter for my chickens.
Coops create a sheltered microclimate, ideal for the birds’ comfort and egg production. In extreme winter conditions or hot summers, coops are a must, especially for larger flocks that need space and protection.
Hybrid Approach
I’ve found that a hybrid approach works best. I use a coop with an attached covered run or tractor area. This setup satisfies the need for security, shelter, and freedom to graze on fresh ground.
The right solution depends on the climate, the number of birds, and the outdoor space available.
What to Consider When Choosing Between Chicken Tractor and Static Coops?
When choosing between chicken tractors and static coop, keep some considerations in mind. For example, you need to evaluate your specific needs, space, climate, and priorities. Let’s talk about this in detail!
Space and Land Availability
Chicken tractors require more space to rotate and provide fresh foraging areas regularly. If you have a larger yard or pasture, tractors allow maximum land usage. Static coops are better suited for smaller backyards or urban areas with limited space.
Predator Pressure
Predators like foxes, raccoons, hawks, and dogs pose a major threat. Chicken tractors have open bottoms and portable fencing that offer some protection when moved frequently. However, static coops with secure enclosures and hardware cloth provide far better predator-proofing, especially in high-risk areas.
Flock Size
Tractors work well for smaller, backyard flocks of 10-15 birds. Larger flocks require more space and shelter what static coops can provide. Coops allow segregating of roosters, and broody hens, or introducing new flock members more easily.
Well, people know a chicken tractor has limited space for feed and water. This restricts the number of birds it can comfortably house. We’ve found some data that the tractor, advertised for up to 8 birds, was only suitable for 4-6 at most. For flock expansion, a static pen or run with a good-sized henhouse is much better.
Climate and Weather
Chicken tractors leave birds fully exposed to the elements like wind, rain, snow, and scorching sun. This makes them less ideal for extreme cold winters or hot summers. Static, insulated coops regulate temperatures and protect chickens from inclement weather much better.
Maintenance and Costs
Tractors are relatively inexpensive, using repurposed materials like pallets or frames on wheels. Coops require sturdier constructed shelters with nest boxes, roosting bars, and proper ventilation – adding to initial costs. However, coops need more labor for frequent cleanouts versus simply moving a tractor.
Feed Requirements
Free-ranging chickens in tractors can supplement their diet by foraging insects, plants, and seeds – reducing supplemental feed costs. Birds in static coops rely solely on provided feed and treats since they can’t graze on fresh ground.
You can also take some advice from the following video about chicken coops and tractors.
FAQs
Want to know more about chicken tractors rather than static coops? Hope this FAQ section will help you out!
Q. How often do I need to move a chicken tractor?
Ideally, move your chicken tractor every 1-2 days, but adjust based on how quickly they use up resources.
Q. Can I use a chicken tractor in the winter?
Winter use depends on your climate. They will not offer enough protection in harsh winters. Consider adding insulation or using a static coop during those months.
Q. Can I use a chicken tractor with chicks?
Yes, but make sure the run area has a very fine mesh to protect chicks from small predators. You should also consider a temporary coop until they mature.
Conclusion
Raising backyard chickens is rewarding, but choosing the right housing is crucial. Chicken tractors and static coops both have advantages and drawbacks. Tractors offer rotational grazing, pest control, and cost-effectiveness. Coops provide better protection from predators and weather extremes.
The ideal choice depends on your specific situation – available space, climate, flock size, and priorities. But the majority love chicken tractors. Some opt for a hybrid approach, combining a coop with an attached tractor run. Whichever you choose, ensure your feathered friends have a safe, comfortable living zone!
