Chickens need space to explore, forage, and exhibit their natural behaviors. A chicken ‘chunnel’ (a combination of ‘chicken’ and ‘tunnel’) is an excellent way to provide them with additional roaming area safely. Here’s a step – by – step guide on how to create one.

Planning Your Chicken Chunnel

1. Location: First, consider the location of your chunnel. It should be in an area that is easily accessible to your chicken coop. Ideally, it should connect directly to the coop door. Also, think about sunlight exposure. Chickens love sunny spots during the day, so choose an area that gets plenty of sunlight but also has some shade available, perhaps from nearby trees or shrubs. You’ll also want to avoid areas that are prone to flooding or waterlogging.
2. Size: The size of the chunnel depends on the number of chickens you have. As a general rule, each chicken should have at least 3 – 4 square feet of space in the chunnel. Measure the length and width accordingly. A longer, narrower chunnel might be more suitable if you have limited space, but make sure it’s wide enough for your chickens to move around comfortably without feeling cramped.
3. Materials: Gather the necessary materials. You’ll need chicken wire or hardware cloth with a small enough mesh to keep predators out (1/2 – inch or smaller is recommended). Wooden or PVC posts will be used to support the structure. You can also use recycled materials such as old lumber for the frame. For the flooring, you can choose from options like gravel, sand, or even a layer of straw or wood chips.

Building the Frame

1. Digging Post Holes: Start by marking the corners of your chunnel with stakes. Dig post holes at regular intervals along the perimeter of the chunnel. The depth of the holes should be about one – third of the length of the posts you’re using. For example, if you have 6 – foot posts, dig the holes about 2 feet deep. Make sure the holes are straight and level.
2. Inserting Posts: Place the wooden or PVC posts in the holes. Use a level to ensure they are perfectly vertical. Fill the holes with concrete or firmly pack the soil around the posts to keep them stable. Allow the concrete to set completely if you’re using it.
3. Constructing the Sides: Once the posts are in place, attach the chicken wire or hardware cloth to the posts. Start at one end and work your way along the length of the chunnel. Use wire or zip ties to secure the wire to the posts. Make sure there are no gaps or holes where predators could get in. If you’re using wooden slats as part of the frame, attach them to the posts on the inside or outside of the wire for added strength.

Creating the Floor and Roof (Optional)

1. Floor: If you’ve chosen to have a floor in your chunnel, lay down a layer of gravel for drainage if needed. Then, add a layer of sand or your preferred bedding material like straw or wood chips. This will provide a comfortable surface for the chickens to walk on and also help with odor control.
2. Roof: A roof can protect your chickens from the elements and from aerial predators. You can use corrugated plastic sheets, plywood, or even a tarp. Attach the roof material to the top of the posts or a separate set of supports running along the length of the chunnel. Make sure the roof is sloped slightly to allow rainwater to run off.

Adding Entrances and Exits

1. Coop Connection: Create an opening in the chunnel that connects directly to the chicken coop. This should be large enough for the chickens to easily pass through. You can use a small door or a flap made of the same wire as the chunnel. Install a latch or some other type of closure to keep the door closed when needed.
2. External Exits: If you want your chickens to be able to access a specific area outside the chunnel, such as a small fenced – in yard, create an exit at the other end. This exit can also be secured with a gate or a latch to control when the chickens can go in and out.

Decorating and Enriching the Chunnel

1. Perches and Hiding Spots: Add some perches inside the chunnel using branches or wooden dowels. You can also create small hiding spots using overturned boxes or small wooden shelters. These will give the chickens places to rest and feel safe.
2. Foraging Opportunities: Scatter some treats or chicken – friendly plants throughout the chunnel. You can plant small patches of grass, herbs like thyme or parsley, or even scatter some mealworms or cracked corn. This will encourage the chickens to explore and engage in their natural foraging behavior.

By following these steps, you can create a wonderful chicken chunnel that will expand your chickens’ living space and provide them with a more enriching environment. It’s a great project that will benefit both you and your feathered friends.