Shelter is one of the most basic needs of mankind.
Without the protection of strong and sturdy surfaces, man would become subject to the dangers of storms, snow, hail, and many other elements.
From the crude caves of the ancient man to the modern, minimalist houses of the wealthy, shelter has changed its designs and trappings, but never its purpose: to make anyone feel safe and protected.
This concept of shelter, unsurprisingly enough, also applies to animals.
The farmer, in particular, can become very concerned over the condition of his animals, and will construct a shelter for such a purpose.
Chickens can be a highly valuable source of income and enjoyment for such livestock owners and hobby farmers.
Aside from cows, pigs and other large livestock, chickens have also gained popularity for their relatively lower costs, as well as for eggs, one of their renewable and most used products.
At a minimal cost and less space consumption compared to cows, goats, or other similar livestock, the farmer can take care of a fine set of chickens that can also give eggs, making chickens beneficial to income as well as for leisure.
Chicken tractors are specially designed to make a chicken coop that provides protection and shelter for the chickens, and economic savings for the chicken-keeper.
These chicken coops are commonly minimal in height but possess reasonable width, providing exactly enough space for the chickens to walk on without spending too much on materials.
The tractor is commonly built in an A-shape or a curved arc, with a small door (commonly or a latched or pull variety) on the side to allow the chickens to walk out.
Nest boxes for easier egg gathering can be installed in the inside of the tractor, while a layer of chicken wire covers the frame of the a-shape or the arc, as well as the door.
To make a chicken coop of this type, a few things need to be taken into consideration.
First, an owner must gather at least the basic tools and skills that will allow him to perform carpentry.
This may require looking at the Internet for coop-building skills - however, a book can be more useful for this particular type of effort, as it will be hard to make a chicken coop while consulting a laptop.
Next, one has to select a good location - amount of space, proximity to water, electricity outlet and to the residence itself should always be checked before laying out the foundations.
Wise selection of materials should come next.
The quality of lumber, nails, and wire should be checked in relation to the amount of financial resources one has.
When one has the tools and materials, it's time to make a chicken coop.
The frame of the coop is typically assembled first, followed by the run panels, the gables, and the roof panels.
Once the run panels are covered with chicken wire, all that is needed is to add additional fixtures such as nest boxes, lights and shelves (where possible) in order to make a chicken coop complete.