what is a chicken tractor

Chicken tractors are tools used by chicken farmers to provide their poultry with a safe and comfortable environment for laying eggs, foraging for food, and generally being free-range birds. The aim is to create a moveable pen that allows the birds access to fresh grass and other forage while also protecting them from natural predators and harsh weather conditions. In this article, we will discuss what a chicken tractor is and what you need to get started building your own.

Features and Benefits of Chicken Tractors

The main feature of chicken tractors is that they are moveable. This is because they are fitted with wheels or are designed to be lifted by their handles. Chickens in the wild live on open fields and move around a lot. Chicken tractors provide a way for farmers to replicate this natural environment for their birds. When chickens are confined to a fixed space, they quickly turn it into a dirty and smelly space that is not conducive to their health and productivity. Chicken tractors, on the other hand, allow birds to roam around a wider area and thus prevent overcrowding. This helps keep the area clean, and prevents the spread of diseases.Another benefit of chicken tractors is that they help fertilize the land. Chickens naturally scratch and dig up the ground, looking for insects and other small creatures. As they do so, they expose the soil, aerating it. The excrement they leave behind as they move about the tractor is a good source of organic fertilizer. Farmers can then use this fertilizer to boost the growth of other crops or vegetable gardens. This makes chicken tractors a highly sustainable way of raising chickens.

Types of Chicken Tractors

There are a variety of chicken tractors available on the market, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Some are made from simple materials like PVC pipes and chicken wire, while others are more elaborate, with metal or wooden frames. The one thing that they all have in common is that they are moveable and come with either wheels or handles.The type of chicken tractor you choose will depend on the size of your flock, the location of your farm, and your budget. Some chicken tractors are designed for small flocks, while others can house several dozen birds. Similarly, if you live in an area with lots of predators like foxes or coyote, you will need a tractor with sturdy protection.

Building Your Own Chicken Tractor

Building your own chicken tractor is relatively easy, and you can find lots of plans and ideas online. To start, you will need to decide on the materials you want to use. PVC pipes and chicken wire are cheap and readily available, but wood or metal frames can offer more protection against predators. Once you have your materials ready, you can begin constructing the base of the tractor. This is the part that will sit on the ground and support the weight of the entire structure.The next step is to add the walls and roof. Chicken wire is easy to work with and provides good ventilation for the birds, but if you live in an area with very cold winters, you may want to consider adding insulation to keep your birds warm. Finally, add wheels or handles to your chicken tractor so that you can move it around your property.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken tractors are a great way to raise a healthy and happy flock of birds. They are moveable, help fertilize the land, and provide protection against predators. There are many different types of chicken tractors available on the market and online. Alternatively, you can build your own with simple materials like PVC pipes and chicken wire. By investing in a chicken tractor, you can help create a sustainable and self-sufficient farming environment for your feathered friends.