To the casual observer, where one decides to place a small chicken coop in their yard or property is of little consequence. In reality the placement a chicken coop can have a significant impact on the health and productivity of your hens, as well as affecting your ultimate enjoyment of your flock.
If you are primarily interested in hens for the production of eggs, then you should consider placing their coop where it will be exposed to maximum sunlight. The frequency that a hen will produce an eggs is related to the amount of sunlight in its environment. This is why chicken will produce more eggs during the summer months when the days are longer and their exposure to sunlight is greatest. Care should be taken to place the coop where it is not shaded by adjacent buildings or trees.
While it is important to study various chicken coop plans before making a final decision, do not forget to consider how that design will work with the site you have selected. In addition to a coop, you should provide your chickens with access to an outdoor pen. This pen should be completely enclosed on the sides and top to protect your chickens from predators. Whenever possible, place the hen on the sunny (south) side of the coop.
When placing your chicken coop you should also be aware of the drainage patterns in the area where the coop is placed. Avoid low-lying ares that drain poorly. If possible place the coop on the highest ground in the yard so that the pen will drain and dry out quickly. This will also benefit you and your family as this will make the daily chores a much more pleasant task. Another option is to consider on of the many designs for portable chicken tractors available.
While it is important to study various chicken coop designs before making a final decision, do not forget to consider how that design will work with the site you have selected. It is never too early to consider the placement of your chicken coop. In fact it is recommended that you decide on the ideal spot even before you finalize your chicken coop design. The location along with the available size and shape of the available area could easily help you decide on the best design and layout of your chicken coop.