The Roost

Guides for Real Chicken Keepers

No fluff, no filler. Just practical advice for people who actually keep chickens in their backyard.

Getting Started
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Best Chicken Coop for Beginners (2026 Guide)

Your first coop doesn't need to be expensive — but it does need to get a few things right. Here's how to choose one you won't regret.

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How Many Chickens Can I Keep in My Backyard?

Local laws, space requirements, noise, and the neighbors — everything you need to figure out before bringing hens home.

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Chicken Coop Size Guide: How Much Space Do You Actually Need?

Amazon listings exaggerate coop capacity. Here's how to calculate the real number — and why bigger is almost always better.

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Wood vs Plastic Chicken Coops: Which Is Better?

They both work. But one might save you hundreds of hours over the life of your flock. Here's the real tradeoff.

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How to Predator-Proof Your Chicken Coop

Chicken wire won't stop a raccoon. Here's what will — and the $30 upgrade that could save your entire flock.

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Looking for a coop right now?

We reviewed 100+ coops and narrowed it down to the 9 worth buying.

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