Raising chickens in Virginia has been one of the most rewarding—and surprisingly clever—backyard adventures our family has ever taken on. Over the years, I’ve learned how to outsmart predators, design a coop that’s easy-care, and even set things up so we can slip away for the weekend without needing a pet sitter. I’ve written up some tips about getting started with chickens and here’s what’s worked for my chicken coop design below—and might work for you, too.
Make Your Chicken Coop Predator-Proof
Over many years, the foxes, raccoons, weasels, and I have had an ongoing battle. They’re smart, fast, and hungry—but with the right setup, you can protect your flock.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
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- Use strong wire: I chose sturdy 2×4 welded wire for my run and buried it to prevent digging. I bought a 2-foot-wide strip, laid it around the run’s perimeter, attached it to the frame, and then covered it with fill dirt. I even planted liriope over the edges—it has dense roots, spreads easily, looks nice year-round, and thrives on neglect. No fox is tunneling through that!
- Double up your mesh: I lined the base of the run with chicken wire to keep curious chicks from slipping out.
- Secure the roof: I used wire across the top of the run to keep hawks and climbing predators out. For structure, I added pergola-style boards—pretty and functional! Vining plants provide shade and snacks for the girls. I also installed a strip of clear corrugated plastic roofing over the area nearest their door to keep them dry. A few cable ties, and it’s nearly invisible.
- Locks matter: Raccoons are smart. I use locking carabiners on every chicken coop door and flap—because if there’s a way in, they’ll find it.
- Egg Collection from the Outside: I designed our coop with a flap door that opens to the nesting boxes. I just twist the latch, the hinged panel drops down, and I collect eggs without stepping inside. It’s one of my favorite features—no need to change into my garden clogs just to gather breakfast!
Add A Natural Playground to Your Chicken Coop Design
Chickens are happiest when they can scratch, flap, and hop. I’ve added logs and branches inside the run—long sticks across the corner of the wire walls, forming makeshift perches of different heights. Watching them hop and flutter like kids on a playground is a joy. I believe providing this enrichment is an essential part of chicken coop design.
They also love to dust bathe, so I repurposed an old tire filled with sand. It stays neat, keeps the dirt contained, and gives them a cozy place to fluff up and relax.
Listen In: Sage Mother Podcast
Our Publisher Jen had the joy of joining the Sage Mother Podcast for a heartfelt conversation about some of her favorite topics—gardening with kids, raising backyard chickens, and nurturing a love of the outdoors. She talked with Andrea and Kristin about simple ways families can slow down and reconnect through nature, engaging all five senses and savoring the everyday magic found right outside our doors.
Tune in here to listen: Sage Mother Podcast – Episode with Jennifer Bryerton
It’s a conversation full of encouragement for parents who want to cultivate wonder, togetherness, and a little more dirt under their fingernails.
Easy-Care Coop Setup for Weekends Away
Yes—you can leave for the weekend without worrying about your hens! It just takes a little planning:
- Attached Run with Auto-Bedtime: Our chicken coop design has an attached walk-in run, which means the girls can put themselves to bed at dusk. No more rushing home to close the door—we used to forget too often! The coop design keeps them safe even if I don’t lock up at night.
- Large Feed & Water Stations: I use a large feeder filled with enough food to last several days. Hens eat free choice, and I keep multiple water stations so there’s a backup in case one spills or gets dirty.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
One of the best things about raising chickens in Central Virginia is the wonderful community of fellow chicken lovers. I recommend joining CLUCK (Charlottesville League of Urban Chicken Keepers) on Facebook. The group is full of friendly advice, inspiration, and support for both beginners and longtime keepers.
Raising chickens in Virginia is not only doable—it’s a joyful experience when your chicken coop is well-designed. With a bit of planning, you can have predator protection, a chicken-friendly playscape, and the freedom to take the occasional weekend away. Plus, the reward of fresh eggs, backyard entertainment, and the satisfaction of a self-sufficient setup is more than worth it.
Easy-Care Chicken Coop Checklist
Attached run with secure, walk-in access
Sturdy 2×4 welded wire for walls and roof
Chicken wire lining at base to protect chicks
2-foot wire perimeter buried and covered with dirt/liriope
Covered section of run with clear corrugated plastic roofing
Pergola-style boards for structure and vining shade plants
Logs and branches for natural perches and play
Tire dust bath filled with sand
Large-capacity feeder (free-choice)
Multiple water stations (clean and full)
Exterior access to nesting boxes for easy egg collection
Locking carabiners on all doors and hatches
JENNIFER BRYERTON, Ma Ed., is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of CharlottesvilleFamily, which she co-founded to provide a trusted, family-centered resource for the Charlottesville community. With a Master’s degree in Education, Jennifer began her career in teaching, where her dedication to experiential learning and community engagement became evident. That background in education and her zeal for marketing and digital engagement infuses her work for parents with a unique perspective. Her vision and leadership have led CharlottesvilleFamily Life & Home Magazine to win numerous awards for editorial excellence and community involvement.
Beyond her professional role, Jennifer treasures opportunities to share gardening, arts, nature and travel experiences with her husband and their four children and never turns down a board game challenge. Jennifer’s blend of education expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to family and enthusiasm for local community-building continues to shape CharlottesvilleFamily, making it a cherished resource for families in the area since 1998.