Are you looking for a cost-effective and movable solution to give your chickens more space? Many chicken owners face the challenge of providing ample room for their flock while ensuring portability and protection. We received a question from a visitor who was impressed by our portable chicken run setup, inquiring if it was a DIY project or a purchased kit. Our answer reveals a simple yet ingenious solution using readily available materials: Northern Tool Car Ports.
Our portable chicken run is constructed from the top sections of two 10′ x 20′ carport structures we acquired from Northern Tool for just $79 each (thanks to coupons!). By joining two kits, we created a spacious 10′ x 40′ enclosure. One half is covered with the carport canopy included in the kit, offering shade and weather protection. The other half utilizes plastic deer netting from Lowes, providing open-air access while maintaining security.
To ensure stability and ease of movement, we employed Gorilla Tape to reinforce all pipe connections. Zip ties were used to secure the canopy and deer netting firmly to the bottom pipes. We also repurposed old chainlink gates to close off each end, providing convenient access for entry and exit.
Addressing wind concerns, we opted to use only the top sections of the carport kits, omitting the leg poles. The 1.5′ wide metal pipes provide robust support, making the structure surprisingly sturdy for relocation using our homemade PVC skid. Moving the entire setup is manageable for one or two people and takes only a few minutes.
For those interested in replicating this setup, you can find similar carport kits at Tractor Supply (https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/shelterlogic-max-ap-canopy-10-ft-w-x-20-ft-l-x-9-1-2-ft-h-1110060) and, of course, at Northern Tool (https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200304845_200304845). Pro-tip: Sign up for Northern Tool’s mailing list to take advantage of their frequent coupons, often applicable even to sale items.
The deer netting we used is available at Lowes (https://www.lowes.com/pd/Tenax-Actual-100-ft-x-7-ft-Net-Folded-Black-Polypropylene-Extruded-Mesh-Rolled-Fencing/3458958).
This system has proven highly effective, although its low center height (around 3 feet) requires some squatting for tasks like setting up feeders and collecting eggs. However, the chickens thrive in this environment. They utilize the covered section for shade and rain protection, while enjoying the open area during pleasant weather. The generous space provided by the two carport sections also aids in manure dispersal, reducing the frequency of moves to about once a week for our 35 birds. We believe that ample space minimizes stress for chickens.
It’s important to note that this setup is primarily designed for daytime predator protection, offering excellent defense against aerial threats like owls and hawks. However, it is not predator-proof against determined nocturnal animals such as raccoons, opossums, skunks, coyotes, or foxes. Therefore, our chickens are trained to return to their secure permanent coop every evening at sundown. To guide them efficiently between the coop and the portable run, we use temporary fencing to create a funnel in the mornings and evenings.
This Northern Tool car ports chicken run solution was a quick and resourceful answer to our needs. If you discover an even faster, easier, or more affordable portable chicken tractor design, we encourage you to share it!
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