Category: Reviews

Wow! TBN Ranch New Chicken Coop

After 15 years of raising chickens in numerous different coops, I finally went all out and had San Tan Valley Coops of Arizona build the chicken coop of my dreams.

2×4 Construction, 1/2 inch black hardware cloth. Builders: San Tan Valley Coops

Every chicken enthusiast understands that maintaining a chicken coop is an ongoing endeavor of constant upgrades. There’s always room for improvement, particularly when it comes to size, as coops never seem spacious enough to accommodate our flock that somehow keeps getting bigger. Concern about the safety from predators is always a concern, and aesthetically, there’s a never-ending desire to make a coop better. Owning and raising birds is only half the enjoyment; the other half lies in having a coop that is not only functional but also a comfortable place for us to do chicken chores.
The transformation of this build is by San Tan Valley Coops and without a doubt, it showcases impeccable craftsmanship. I must admit, maybe I indulged a bit this time, but I have no regrets. As the saying goes, “You get what you pay for,” and without a doubt, San Tan Valley Coops delivered pure quality.

Before & After

The Completed Coop
With Shade Cloth Installed for Protection from the Sun

Side View

The frame is 2×4 construction, heavy-grade 1/2-inch black hardware cloth, and two doors to make coop access easy. Door latches are high quality, and I’m confident the entire build is predator-proof. Coyotes, bobcats, and hawks are my problem here, but good luck, guys; getting into this coop is definitely not going to be worth the challenge. The building’s foundation is set on railroad ties secured in concrete and railroad spikes.
I have a 10×10 interior coop for the night, where there is a little more protection from the summer monsoons and infrequent seasonal wind. It doesn’t get cold here in the winter; temps seldom drop below 40. Although it hardly ever rains here, the barn roof is waterproof and has an ample overhang.
And, because I’m not crazy enough… I put cameras in the coop so I can check on my girls from the house. 🙂

San Tan Valley Coops
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A Review, Humumu Chicken Nest Box

Wall Mount $109 – Amazon
With Legs: 8/2023 $129

Do I Love It? Yes! 🙂

“I chose the 3-hole nest box with legs rather than a wall mount. The unit is available in different sizes, sturdy, and very well made. The removable plastic nest box is a grate, and this was the selling point for me. I put artificial turf in my nest boxes; however, when I have an unwanted broody hen, I’m hoping removing the turf discourages this. The box itself has great airflow, which is perfect for climates with hot summers. ” – TBN Ranch

About the Humumu 3 Hole Nest Box

HUMUMU Chicken Nesting Box is designed specifically to provide clean, comfortable, safe, and covered laying space for hens, giving them a sense of security and increasing egg production. These durable, stable, and easy-to-assemble nesting boxes can be used long-term.
One of the biggest benefits of the HUMUMU Chicken Nesting Box is its slightly tilted design, allowing eggs to roll into the tray. This protects and cleans the eggs, making them easy to collect at any time. You can effortlessly obtain more high-quality eggs. We recommend placing some bedding under the egg box cover for additional egg protection.
These Nesting Boxes are different from any other nesting box on the market. They are made using high-quality materials for durability. Hot-dip galvanized stainless steel and highly durable ABS plastic ensure a long lifespan. Unique side-hole designs increase hen airflow and breathing ability.
The removable trays are easy to clean, and any other excess can be washed away with water by removing the trays.
Each package includes all the screws and nuts needed for assembly, as well as a bonus egg collection tray that can hold up to 12 eggs. Unit can be hung and dismantled easily with the key-shaped hanging hole and installed at a height of 18-22 inches above the ground.

Assembly Directions Were Unclear, So Here’s a Helpful Video…

Humumu 3 Hole Nest Box Set Up My Coop
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Free Range Easy Fill Drinker, Design Flaw. An Updated Review

There is a problem with this drinker, I’m disappointed to report a major design flaw that needs to be addressed. I used this drinker for about a week and kept finding the tank full and the tray dry. This is a death sentence in Phoenix where temps are 110+. There isn’t a vent in the cover, causing a vacuum and therefore a stoppage of water flow. I drilled a couple of holes in the lid and now it’s working nicely.

Farm & Home Supply

I thought the Free Range Easy Fill Drinker was a good choice for our farm because it held 3.5 gallons of water, keeping it cooler longer when the temps are extreme. For the price, I expected more, and now it’s up $10+ dollars!
I won’t tell you not to buy this drinker, but be prepared to drill a few holes in the cover or you’ll find your birds without water.
FYI: I’ve contacted the manufacturer about this problem. No response.

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