Infrastructure: Building for Giants

Standard coops are designed for 5lb Leghorns. An Indio Gigante rooster can weigh 10-15lbs and stand 3 feet tall. They need a "custom garage."

The Coop Modifications

• The Pop Door: A standard 12"x12" chicken door will scrape the back feathers off an Indio or force them to crawl.

• Requirement: Doorways should be at least 18–24 inches high.

• Roosting Physics:

• The "No-Jump" Rule: Heavy birds landing from high spots suffer micro-fractures in their feet, leading to Bumblefoot.

• Max Height: Roosts should be no higher than 18 inches.

• The Perch: Use a standard 2x4 laid flat (wide side up). Sand the edges specifically to remove splinters. Their heavy toes need flat support, not a round dowel which causes curling.

Space Requirements

• Floor Space: 8–10 sq. ft. per bird is minimum. Crowding leads to feather picking, and Indios have a lot of exposed skin (thighs/neck) that damages easily.

• Bedding Depth: Use the "Deep Litter Method" (4–6 inches of pine shavings or hemp). You need a shock-absorbing mattress for them to walk and jump on.