Repairing Our Chicken Coop After Storm Darragh

Hello everyone! I hope you’re all doing well and managing to stay cosy after the wild weather we experienced over the weekend here in Cornwall. Storm Darragh really made its presence felt, and unfortunately, our beloved chicken coop took quite a beating. With our three lovely hens relying on us for shelter and safety, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work on some much-needed repairs.

As I looked out at the coop yesterday morning, I could see a few loose panels and some damage to the fence surrounding their run. But it was still too windy to do a full repair. A patch job it was until I could get the bits I needed to repair.

It’s essential to ensure that our girls have a secure and comfortable home, especially after such a storm. The last thing we want is for them to feel unsettled or unsafe.

Assessing the Damage

First thing on Sunday morning, I took a good look at the coop and the fence. The roof held up pretty well apart from some ripped felt, but a couple of the side wooden panels were forced in, and the fence had a few gaps that could let in unwanted visitors. With the threat of Bird Flu still looming in our area, as highlighted in the recent reports of outbreaks near Rosudgeon, it’s crucial to reinforce their living space. Keeping our hens safe from any potential harm is our top priority. I would hate anything to happen to them!

Gathering Our Supplies

To get started on the repairs, I knew I need to gather some quality materials this coming week. This is where our trusted source for country supplies comes in handy. I’ll be looking for some new mesh fencing, wooden panels, nails, roof felt and perhaps a fresh coat of weatherproof paint to protect the wood from the elements.

Repairing the Coop and Fence

Once I have all the necessary equipment, we’ll begin by replacing the damaged panels on the coop and replacing the roof felt. It’s a straightforward process, and I’m quite confident that Mr. B and I can handle it together. After all, he did a great job building the coop initially! We’ll also reinforce the fence, making sure it’s secure and tall enough to keep out any curious wildlife. Yes, you Mr Fox!

Keeping Our Hens Safe from Bird Flu

As we repair the coop, we’ll also be mindful of the ongoing precautions against Bird Flu. With the recent outbreak in our area, it’s important to keep our hens indoors as much as possible and limit their exposure to wild birds. We’ll ensure that their run is secure, and we’ll be vigilant about cleaning and disinfecting their space regularly.

It’s a challenging time for chicken keepers, but with a little effort and the right supplies, we can create a safe haven for our girls. They bring so much joy to our family, and I want to make sure they’re happy and healthy.

I’ll keep you updated on our progress repairing our chicken coop and share some tips for maintaining a safe and loving home for our chickens. Until next time, happy chicken keeping!