After having moved the baby chickens from in the house brooder box to two of the chicken tractors outside, the birds have gotten big enough that I needed to prep the third chicken tractor so I can split them up so they can have room to move around. One of the units has the two ducks in it while the other has the eight chickens, all of which are getting bigger.
While the chicken tractor is technically usable as is, I wanted to reinforce the bottom of the unit so when it inevitably starts to degrade from the constant contact with the ground, it'll still be sturdy for a little while longer. I also wanted to add wheels to the unit so it can be easily moved around when need be. To do this required another batch of salvage wood from the pile. After having moved the three units back into the chicken yard I had to tip the chicken tractor on its back, exposing the bottom so I can get to work. I gathered some more 2x4s that were nailed together so I can break them apart and took my measurements so I can cut up the wood to make the frame to go under the chicken tractor. With the 2x4 frame put together I fit it in place under the chicken tractor and secured it with wood screws. With the frame secured I then took some of the leftover 2x4 wood and cut it in half, making two pieces approximately 8" long. I then secured these in the back of the chicken tractor to the outside of the unit, but to the 2x4 frame on the inside. Of course the boards are slightly higher than the boards on the inside but this is fine for the next step. I took the smallest of my larger drill bits that I can put into my drill, which was a 3/4" hole saw bit, and drilled a hole on either side, through both boards, from outside through to the inside. With that I took some 1/2" bolts that are probably 6" long or so, and with some washers and lock nuts, attached the wheels to the sides of the chicken tractor. With the wheels attached I then took one door handle that I was able to find and attached it to the front of the chicken tractor near the top. I will have to get another one so as to be even. With that the unit will be able to be moved around with ease and hopefully last a little longer than these things typically last when left to the elements.
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May 2023
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