How to Build a Chicken Tractor Cheap

Raising chickens has become increasingly popular among homeowners and homesteaders alike. Not only do chickens provide a sustainable source of fresh eggs, but they can also help with pest control and provide natural fertilizer for your garden. To ensure the health and safety of your chickens, a chicken tractor is an excellent investment. A chicken tractor is a portable coop that allows you to move your chickens around your yard, providing them with fresh grazing areas while protecting them from potential predators. In this article, we will guide you through the process of building a chicken tractor on a budget.

1. Determine the Size: The first step is to decide how many chickens you plan to accommodate in the tractor. As a general rule, provide at least 4 square feet of space per chicken. Measure the dimensions accordingly to determine the size of the tractor.

2. Gather Materials: Building a chicken tractor cheap requires resourcefulness. Look for repurposed materials such as discarded wood pallets, old doors, or windows. Additionally, you will need chicken wire, screws, hinges, and a latch to secure the door.

3. Construct the Frame: Begin by constructing the base of the tractor using the repurposed wooden pallets or scrap wood. Secure the corners with screws to ensure stability.

4. Add Wheels: Attach wheels to one end of the base to make the tractor mobile. You can use old bicycle wheels or purchase inexpensive wheels from a local store. This will allow you to easily move the tractor around your yard.

5. Build the Walls: Attach chicken wire to the sides of the tractor, ensuring it is securely fastened. This will provide ventilation and protection for your chickens.

6. Create the Roof: Use reclaimed plywood or metal sheets to construct the roof. Ensure it is securely attached to protect your chickens from rain and other elements.

7. Install the Door: Cut a section of the chicken wire to create a door. Attach hinges to one side and a latch on the other for easy access to the tractor.

8. Add Perches and Nesting Boxes: Inside the tractor, provide perches for your chickens to roost on. These can be made from scrap wood. Additionally, install nesting boxes for your hens to lay their eggs. Repurposed milk crates or wooden boxes work well for this purpose.

9. Secure the Tractor: To protect your chickens from predators, bury chicken wire around the base of the tractor, ensuring it extends a few inches below the ground. This will prevent digging predators from gaining access.

10. Provide Shade: Attach a tarp or old sheet to one side of the tractor to provide shade during hot weather. This will keep your chickens comfortable and protected from the sun.

11. Add Water and Feed Containers: Hang water and feed containers inside the tractor at a suitable height for your chickens. This will keep their food and water clean and easily accessible.

12. Move the Tractor: Once your chicken tractor is complete, it is time to move it around your yard. Regularly relocate the tractor to provide your chickens with fresh grazing areas, ensuring they have a constant supply of bugs and grass.

FAQs about Chicken Tractors:

1. How much does it cost to build a chicken tractor?
The cost can vary depending on the materials you use, but it can be built for under $100.