The Keep kit

How to choose keep kit

Size housing for the worst weather

Buy a coop rated for fewer birds than the label claims, because ventilation and dry bedding matter more in a wet UK winter than headline capacity.

Predator-proofing is non-negotiable

Half-inch welded mesh (not chicken wire), a skirt or dug-in apron, and a proper latch. Electric poultry netting is the single best fox deterrent for most keepers.

Plastic vs timber

Plastic coops clean easily and resist red mite; timber looks the part but needs treating and thorough mite treatment. Pick for the job you'll actually keep up with.

Feed store dry

A galvanised or rodent-proof bin keeps feed dry and keeps rats away, the cheapest bit of kit that saves the most money and grief.