Space Requirements for Country Chicken

Proper space planning is one of the most important aspects of country chicken (Desi/Nati chicken) farming. You should ensure adequate space for healthy growth, reducing stress, preventing diseases and improving the overall productivity. Do not overcrowd the birds, as it can lead to poor performance and higher mortality.  

Free Range Country Chicken

Why Space Matters in Country Chicken Farming

• 🐓 Health & Comfort – Birds with enough space show better immunity and growth.
• 🌱 Natural Behaviour – Country chickens need room to scratch, peck, and forage.
• ⚖️ Disease Prevention – Proper spacing reduces contact and spread of infections.
• 💰 Profitability – Birds gain weight faster and produce more eggs in a stress-free environment.

Housing Space Requirements

1. Brooding Stage (0–4 Weeks)

• Space: 0.3 to 0.5 sq. ft. per chick inside the shed.
• Keep chicks warm with proper brooding equipment.
• Use round enclosures to prevent chicks from crowding in corners.

2. Growing Stage (5–16 Weeks)

• Space: 1 to 2 sq. ft. per bird in the shed.
• Provide an open area/veranda for movement.
• Ensure good ventilation and dry litter.

3. Adult Birds (16 Weeks and Above)

• Inside Shed: 2.5 to 3 sq. ft. per bird
• Free Range/Open Area: 10–15 sq. ft. per bird for natural foraging.
• Birds should have access to shade, trees, or net-covered areas.

Nesting & Roosting Space

• Nesting Boxes: 1 box for every 5 hens (for laying eggs).
• Perches/Roosts: At least 8–10 inches of perch space per bird at 2–3 ft height.

Open Range & Grazing Area

Country chicken thrives in free-range systems.

• Provide 10–15 sq. ft. per bird in an open grazing area.
• Plant fodder crops like Stylo, Cowpea, or Azolla in ponds for natural feeding.
• Rotate grazing areas to prevent overuse and disease build-up.

Practical Example

If you are planning to rear 100 adult birds:

• Shed Space: ~300 sq. ft. (3 sq. ft. × 100 birds)
• Open Free Range: ~1,200 sq. ft. (12 sq. ft. × 100 birds)

Key Tips for Farmers

✅ Avoid overcrowding – it leads to stress and diseases.

✅ Keep litter dry and clean inside sheds.

✅ Ensure shade and shelter in free range.

✅ Regularly disinfect sheds and water areas.

Proper space allocation is the foundation of successful country chicken farming. By ensuring enough room for each bird in the shed and in the free range, farmers can promote natural behaviour, reduce disease risks, and achieve higher profitability.

Previous Chapter: Choosing between small-scale and large-scale country chicken farming.