Keeping a flock of 12 hens is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh eggs and a lively backyard, but it also means you’ll need a chicken coop with serious capacity. Overcrowding leads to stress, feather loss, and lower egg production—so giving your hens the right amount of space, protection, and comfort is non-negotiable. The best chicken coops for 12 hens provide durability, easy cleaning, predator security, and enough roost and nesting space for every bird.
For 12 hens, you’ll want 36–48 square feet of indoor coop space and at least 120 square feet of run space. You’ll also need at least 4–5 nesting boxes and multiple roosting bars. In this guide, we’ll cover our top picks, a buyer’s guide, detailed product reviews, a comparison table, and answers to common questions so you can pick the perfect home for your flock.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: OverEZ Large Chicken Coop – Sturdy, spacious, and made in the USA.
- Best Budget (still $300+): Pets Imperial Walk-In Coop – Affordable large wooden design.
- Best Premium: Omlet Eglu Cube with 4m Run – Insulated, predator-proof, and low-maintenance.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Coop for 12 Hens
- Space Requirements: 3–4 sq ft per hen indoors and 10 sq ft per hen in the run is ideal.
- Predator Protection: Use hardware cloth, strong locks, and raised designs to deter digging animals.
- Ventilation: Larger flocks create more moisture—ensure multiple vents or windows for fresh air.
- Ease of Cleaning: Walk-in access, removable trays, and smooth surfaces help keep things sanitary.
- Weather Resistance: Choose treated wood or UV-stable plastic to withstand all seasons.
- Nesting & Roosting: Provide at least 5 nesting boxes and roost space for all hens to perch together.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. OverEZ Large Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Owners wanting a durable, all-weather coop for large flocks.
- Holds 10–15 hens
- LP SmartSide siding and trim
- Five nesting boxes with exterior access
- Ventilated windows with predator mesh
Pros: Extremely sturdy, weatherproof, spacious
Cons: Heavy and requires assembly space
Final Verdict: The best long-term investment for large backyard flocks.
2. Pets Imperial Walk-In Coop
Who it’s for: Keepers wanting a budget-friendly yet roomy wooden coop.
- Holds up to 12 hens
- Weather-treated timber frame
- Three large nesting boxes
- Walk-in height for easy access
Pros: Affordable for its size, attractive design
Cons: Needs seasonal maintenance
Final Verdict: A solid choice if you want a walk-in style without overspending.
3. Omlet Eglu Cube with 4m Run
Who it’s for: Keepers who value convenience, hygiene, and predator protection.
- Holds 8–12 hens
- Insulated double-walled plastic
- Predator-proof skirt
- Four-metre secure run included
Pros: Easy to clean, weatherproof, secure
Cons: Higher cost than wooden coops
Final Verdict: Excellent for those who want low maintenance and high security.
4. SnapLock Formex Extra Large Coop
Who it’s for: Keepers wanting a lightweight, low-maintenance coop.
- Holds 8–12 hens
- UV-resistant, rot-proof plastic
- Tool-free assembly
- Adjustable ventilation
Pros: Durable, portable, weatherproof
Cons: Less insulation in extreme cold
Final Verdict: Ideal for mild climates and mobile setups.
5. Producer’s Pride Sentinel XL Coop
Who it’s for: Chicken keepers who prefer a walk-in coop with built-in run.
- Holds up to 12 hens
- Raised wooden design with attached run
- Multiple roosting bars and nesting boxes
- Walk-in entry for cleaning
Pros: Easy access, good space for birds
Cons: Needs extra predator-proofing
Final Verdict: Functional and user-friendly for larger backyards.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| OverEZ Large Coop | LP SmartSide siding, 5 nesting boxes | 10–15 hens | View |
| Pets Imperial Walk-In Coop | Wood, 3 nesting boxes, walk-in | Up to 12 hens | View |
| Omlet Eglu Cube (4m Run) | Insulated plastic, predator skirt | 8–12 hens | View |
| SnapLock Formex Extra Large | UV plastic, adjustable ventilation | 8–12 hens | View |
| Producer’s Pride Sentinel XL | Walk-in design, multiple roosts | Up to 12 hens | View |
FAQ
What size coop do I need for 12 hens?
At least 36–48 square feet inside and 120 square feet in the run.
How many nesting boxes for 12 hens?
Five nesting boxes will comfortably serve a flock of 12.
Can I free-range 12 hens?
Yes, but always provide a secure coop for nights and bad weather.
Conclusion
The OverEZ Large Chicken Coop is a robust choice for long-term use, the Pets Imperial Walk-In Coop offers affordability and space, and the Omlet Eglu Cube with 4m Run delivers premium convenience and predator-proofing. Choosing the right coop ensures your 12 hens stay happy, healthy, and productive all year.
Bonus for Coop Owners
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