In late 2019 we get a donation from Cecile (Permacultura Penyaflor). The old chicken tractor was used before in the region near Tortosa. Treated by wind, sun and rain it was still in good condition but we decided to refurbish the structure before we would set up a new clan of chicken in the color garden.

We cleaned the structure and we started to unmount all the damaged or broken parts.

We replaced the old main door. We redesigned also the entrance by using a fixed and a movable part.

Also we created a box with two nests for the chicken. In the middle we placed a higher wall to give a little bit of privacy while nesting.

We created a new ramp to the ground connected to the main entrance. The ramp is connected to a chain. Therefor we can move it up and down without entering the structure.

We placed a seat bar in the left part of the little stable. Chicken like to sit on a wooden branch and its better for cleaning and health if they are placed not on the ground.

To keep the temperature in the nights we created a stable door. A stick based on a piece of an antenna (right side in the photo) keep the door closed, even with strong winds.

To have a look what’s happening inside without disturbing the chicken we placed a window in the wooden wall.

The main structure was given, but by changing some details we are sure to optimize the daily handling (wheels are still on the list). In general a chicken tractor has an advantage for the animal health. By moving the structure the chicken are not exposed all the time to their feces (wee and poo).

Trimming the green might be another advantage on top.

The refurbished home will host some araucana, a special chicken typ. After very positive experience in the last years in our German home unit we appreciate their character and strength also in our color garden in Spain.

Thanks to Cecile for the tractor and thanks to Francesca for the new guests in the color garden…