THE CHICKEN TREE CONE

The Tree Cone Chicken House was born out of necessity and a deep respect for the remarkable nature of chickens. Over the past 15 years, we've enjoyed the privilege of working with these fascinating animals, who generously provide us with fresh eggs every day a gift we cherish and feel immense gratitude for.

However, like many who keep chickens, we faced challenges. Badgers and foxes occasionally made off with some of our flock. While this is part of nature, it reminded us that we hold responsibility for their security. Our journey began with a conventional roosting shed, which soon revealed its shortcomings. Housing 15 to 20 chickens requires a reasonably large structure big enough to walk into and spade out the muck.  Cleaning out the house became a regular and unpleasant chore, as droppings accumulated, producing ammonia and increasing the risk of disease for both the chickens and us. Parasitical insects thrived in the waste, and the structure itself began to suffer from rot. Additionally, some chickens often bypassed the coop altogether, choosing to roost high up in trees or even on top of the shed.

One day, I decided there had to be a better way a design that would address these challenges while aligning more closely with the chickens' natural instincts. My research into their origins led me to the jungle fowl, the wild ancestors of modern chickens. Jungle fowl roost in trees at night, seeking both shelter and protection from predators, much like pheasants. This insight shifted my focus entirely: an elevated roost would be the key to success.

The concept of a cone-shaped shelter emerged naturally as I considered simple and efficient designs. The cone, much like an umbrella, is light, aerodynamic, and weather-resistant ideal for a raised structure. I built the first cone on four sturdy support legs, but the question of how the chickens would access it remained.

Initially, I experimented with ladder rungs arranged on the legs in various configurations. However, I quickly realised that chickens disliked having to jump from one side to the other and manoeuvre awkwardly. Observing their movements, I noted that a large chicken can jump and flap up a certain incline, so I designed a long ladder at a 40-degree angle with evenly spaced rungs, 80 cm apart. To my amazement, every chicken successfully climbed the cone on the very first night!

Refinements followed, particularly to make the ladder predator proof. The final design has now stood the test of time eight years, in fact. The cone requires no cleaning, as droppings and insects naturally fall to the ground. It provides excellent ventilation, shade during the day, and safety from aerial and ground predators.

By mimicking the natural habits of chickens, the Tree Cone Chicken House has transformed how we care for our flock. It’s a simple, elegant solution that ensures a safe and comfortable environment, while also making our lives as keepers easier and more enjoyable.