We decided to get a few chickens and a couple ducks. I had some when I was growing up and loved it. I am not a dog or cat person, so we thought they would be good pets for us. I did a lot of research and found out that Buff Orpingtons are the friendliest chickens of all. Plus they are a beautiful golden color. We built our own coop. We designed it so that it is elevated up on legs and the floor is chicken wire. That way the poop falls through and we don't have to clean it out. We will put a metal tray under it so we can just dump the poop every once in a while. On one side, the roof lifts up and the kids can easily reach the eggs.
We used a piano type hinge that we bought at Home Depot for the lid. The nesting boxes are on this side along the top. My kids have no problem reaching them.
We have had them a year and a half now and it has been wonderful! My boys have really stepped up to the plate when it comes to feeding, watering, and collecting eggs. The ducks don't like to be held but the chickens come right up and let you pet them and pick them up. We ordered ours through the mail and have had them since they were chicks. If you have ever considered getting chickens, I HIGHLY recommend the Orpingtons.
Our family has been thinking about chickens too! I just love the idea of fresh eggs. How many chickens do you have? How many eggs do you get a week? What do you do with them in the winter? Love your coop!
I would love to get chickens! My husband still needs some convincing, though :) Thanks for the advice on which kind to get! Glad they bring so much fun to your family!!