can i keep chickens in a hutch?

[crisgal]

After much deliberation we have decided to get two silkies and I have been pricing coops. They are very expensive and we already have a nearly new rabbit hutch.
Would they be able to live in there?
It's a 2 storey one, but we could take the dividing floor out. They would be free roaming but need somewhere to nest.

[carmalee]

Think it should make a great coop - presumably it's still totally fox proof and with good ventilation- obviously too small for them to live in but if they free range through the day I can't see a problem.

[crisgal]

well that's what i thought carmalee, but wondered if it would be ok for the winter? I presume they spend more time indoors then. Or do they not mind getting wet?

[carmalee]

My silkies didn't mind a bit of drizzle but hated downpours (we were in Africa at the time) - don't know which country you are in - maybe you have snowy winters?

[crisgal]

in uk. the winters can be cold, and it does rain a lot here!

[carmalee]

am sure they'll be fine - if you are worried why not rig up a large wire run to attach to the coop and use that for the very bad weather. At least you'll know they are close to home and a dry place to roost. Lots of chickens live out all the time - btw aren't silkies just the greatest - our rooster was very protective of his ladies and used to save them from all sorts of dangers (some I suspect imaginery but others very real - one day we had a huge puff adder in the yard and he made a terrific noise and herded his harem away to the far corner - so brave.)

[crisgal]

he sounds super! We just want two ladies to start with.
They are lovely birds. i have a friend who has two and they are just adorable. So funny.
We are very excited!