Deep clean (15–20 min)
- Empty tray, scrape, wipe with poultry-safe cleaner, dry.
- Shake out mats, replace damp bedding, spot disinfect perches.
- Rinse feeders, scrub algae from drinkers.
PureSphere
Care & Maintenance
Practical upkeep for the “Running Chicken” coop with run — tuned for Spain’s climates.
A coop that stays clean, dry and calm
Good care is simple: keep moisture down, air moving and routines short. Our guidance focuses on quick daily habits and smart weekly blocks, so the “Running Chicken” coop stays fresh without turning into a chore.
- Moisture control
- Predator checks
- Fast cleanouts
- Seasonal tweaks
Daily routine (10 minutes total)
Morning
- Top up fresh water and feed; rinse nipples or bowls if dusty.
- Open run access; confirm latches move freely.
- Collect eggs; quick scan for limping or lethargy.
Evening
- Head count; close and secure all doors.
- Brush droppings from the tray into a bin liner (1 minute).
- Check ventilation slots are unobstructed.
Weekly focus (Spain)
Heat in summer and humidity in coastal areas demand airflow and dry bedding. Inland winters reward draught-proofing without sealing vents.
- Air: vents open year-round; add wind baffle in winter, shade in summer.
- Floor: keep litter dry and loose; replace damp patches immediately.
- Edges: check the run skirt and mesh for digging or gaps.
Structure & safety
- Tighten hinge/latch screws; test locks.
- Scan mesh and corners; look for chew or dig marks.
- Trim vegetation touching the run (hides predators, traps moisture).
Comfort & air
- Fluff litter; keep it dry and 3–5 cm deep.
- Clear vent dust; confirm cross-flow without drafts on roosts.
- Check nest liners; replace if sticky or damp.
Monthly maintenance
- Hardware: tighten all fasteners, oil hinges, re-seat warped latches.
- Weatherproofing: inspect roof felt/panels and seal seams that wick water.
- Ventilation: vacuum vents, confirm warm air escapes high, fresh air enters low.
- Records: keep a simple log — it reveals patterns before problems start.
Pro tip: keep a small “care caddy”: scraper, stiff brush, cloths, mild disinfectant,
spare bedding, cable ties, and a handful of screws. Five minutes saved every time.
Summer
- Shade the run; add extra drinker; refresh water twice daily in heatwaves.
- Early/late feeding; watch for panting and drooped wings.
- Increase cleanouts to reduce ammonia and flies.
Winter
- Add dry bedding; block wind from roost height (keep vents open).
- Keep floor dry; lift feeders off the ground.
- Check for condensation on cold mornings — improve airflow if present.
Spring/Autumn
- Deep clean; repair any roof or mesh wear after storms.
- Reset predator skirt edges after digging activity.
- Re-balance shade vs. airflow as temperatures swing.
Health & safety
- Observe: eating, drinking, posture, and movement tell you everything.
- Parasites: check around vent and under wings during weekly clean.
- Hygiene: gloves + mask for deep cleans; rinse chemicals; dry before birds return.
Safety alert: never block all vents “for warmth”. Dry air keeps birds healthier
than sealed air.
Simple monitoring
- Weekly weight feel (breastbone check) on 2–3 birds.
- Track egg count trends, not single days.
- Note any sneezing, tail-down stance, or isolation.
FAQ
How often should I replace bedding completely?
Every 4–6 weeks, sooner after rain or spills. Spot-replace damp patches immediately.
What cleaners are safe?
Mild, poultry-safe options: diluted white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or approved poultry
disinfectants. Always rinse and dry.
Best way to keep predators out?
Secure latches, inspect mesh weekly, maintain a dig-proof skirt around the run, and keep vegetation
trimmed away from edges.
When do I need professional help?
Structural damage, persistent leaks, electrical work, or recurring flock health issues — contact us
for a tailored plan.
Need a care plan that fits your yard?
We’ll map daily, weekly and seasonal tasks for your location in Spain.
Contact our care team