The Dangers of a Tractor-style Coop

I don't move mine with a motor for fear of this problem. I was debating a door on the coop portion, but think I've decided to definitely add one after reading this. (I was leaning that way.) I almost always move them by myself, (by hand,) and watch and listen for problems. It can be pretty slow, but fairly safe. They always squawk and flutter around, but there's usually something different when there's a problem. I think there was a head caught once, or something like that, probably multiple incidents. I don't really remember because it wasn't bad. If the outside door is open, they like to run out, so I usually close it so they don't get caught in the frame if it jerks. (There's also space under the frame, just in case.)

I’ve had this problem with tractors, but mine are pvc with a separate “coop” that moves with it. So it isn’t as heavy if I have to move with birds contained in it, and it won’t crush them or I can leave them in their coop and move the tractor separately.

I'm sorry you had to go through this! I'm glad you shared your story, I'm sure others had not thought of this.

And dont forget this

Do not let your grandpa help.

I'm sorry this happened and clearly it was accidental. But yes, chickens on the ground are at risk of being rolled over by a moving tractor coop if you don't watch and go slowly. I have rated the review with 2 stars because there are other risks that weren't covered. For example, tractor coops often have small waterers and must be monitored very closely. Also, because they roll, they rarely have skirting to prevent predators that dig. Sometimes they don't have shade cover and chickens can overheat on a hot day. If they are elevated in wheels, small chicks can sometimes squeeze under or small predators like cats can reach through the gaps. Etc.

I had idly wondered about this, but did not pursue it. A useful alarm for tractor users.

This article just seems like common sense... I move my tractor by hand, but am still very careful. How were you moving it that you were able to run over them so quickly?

I don't think this problem has even crossed my mind.
I don't use a tractor but many others do.

Thanks for the safety tips with tractor coops

If you're gonna move your chicken tractor, you GOTTA read this first! Tractors are a great way to keep your chickens mobile and save your grass ... but there are dangers we don't usually think about. This one is easily avoidable, but only if you think about it BEFORE you move your coop ... but who knew?

So sorry for the accident. But I'm glad you wrote something that could give others a warning.

»How do these chicken farmers actually move those chicken tractors without crushing their chickens?« - Now i know that, sadly, accidents do happen when a chicken tractor is being moved.
This article suggests a set of good rules how to avoid those unwanted deaths and injuries. Well written and many pictures, a very good »lessons learned«.