Designing Multi-Species Barns: Layout Tips for Mixed Livestock Operations
- Yellow Pages Admin
- Aug 22
- 4 min read
For small to mid-sized farmers in Ontario, especially those running hobby farms, the idea of housing multiple species under one roof is both practical and appealing. A multi-species barn can save space, reduce building costs, and streamline daily chores. But it also comes with unique challenges—each animal has distinct needs when it comes to space, temperature, feeding, and social behaviour.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to design a barn layout that safely and comfortably accommodates various species such as chickens, goats, and sheep, while ensuring ease of management and long-term sustainability.
Why Choose a Multi-Species Barn?
Multi-species barns are becoming increasingly popular among Ontario farmers for several reasons:
Efficiency: Shared infrastructure means fewer buildings to maintain.
Cost Savings: One barn is cheaper to build and heat than three.
Convenience: Centralized feeding, watering, and cleaning routines.
Land Optimization: Better use of limited acreage.
However, the benefits only come if the barn is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of each species. A well-planned layout not only improves animal welfare but also simplifies daily chores and reduces long-term maintenance costs.
Understanding Species-Specific Needs
Before diving into layout tips, it’s essential to understand what each animal requires.
Space: About 2–3 sq ft per bird indoors; 8–10 sq ft outdoors.
Temperature: Prefer warmer environments; drafts can be deadly.
Behaviour: Pecking order is real—stress and overcrowding lead to aggression.
Sanitation: High ammonia levels from droppings require good ventilation.
Space: 15–20 sq ft per goat indoors; 25–50 sq ft outdoors.
Behaviour: Curious and agile—can climb, escape, and chew on everything.
Social Needs: Thrive in groups; isolation causes stress.
Cleanliness: Hate wet bedding; need dry, well-drained floors.
Space: 12–16 sq ft per sheep indoors; 20–25 sq ft outdoors.
Behaviour: Docile and less curious than goats.
Temperature: Hardy, but lambs need warmth.
Foot Health: Prone to foot rot—requires dry, clean flooring.
Layout Tips for Multi-Species Barns
Zoning by Species
Create distinct zones within the barn for each species. Use solid partitions to prevent physical contact and reduce stress. Chickens should be housed in a secure coop with elevated roosts, while goats and sheep can share a larger open area with separate sleeping quarters.
Tip: Use gates and fencing that goats can’t climb or chew through. Sheep are less likely to test boundaries, but goats will.
Ventilation and Airflow
Proper airflow is critical for all species, especially chickens. Install adjustable vents and fans to maintain air quality and reduce ammonia buildup. Avoid direct drafts on animals, particularly in winter.
Tip: Position chicken coops away from prevailing winds and use curtains or baffles to control airflow.
Flooring and Drainage
Use species-appropriate flooring:
Chickens: Deep litter system with pine shavings.
Goats: Raised on slatted floors or packed dirt with straw.
Sheep: Concrete with rubber mats or packed earth.
Ensure all zones have proper drainage to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to disease.
Feeding Stations
Each species has different dietary needs. Chickens require grain and grit, goats need hay and minerals, and sheep need forage and salt. Separate feeding stations prevent cross-contamination and bullying.
Tip: Elevate goat feeders to discourage contamination. Chickens should have hanging feeders to reduce waste.
Lighting and Daylight Access
Natural light supports animal health and productivity. Install windows or skylights in each zone. Chickens especially benefit from consistent daylight cycles to maintain egg production.
Tip: Use timers for supplemental lighting in winter to ensure chickens get 14–16 hours of light daily.
Biosecurity and Disease Control
Mixed-species barns can increase the risk of disease transmission. Implement strict biosecurity measures:
Footbaths at entrances.
Separate tools for each zone.
Regular cleaning schedules.
Tip: Quarantine new animals before introducing them to the barn.
Ease of Access and Workflow
Design the barn with daily chores in mind. Include wide aisles for wheelbarrows, easy access to water and feed, and clear sightlines for monitoring animals.
Tip: Place the chicken coop near the entrance for quick egg collection and predator checks.
Seasonal Considerations in Ontario
Ontario’s climate poses unique challenges. Ontario winters bring frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall, while summers often deliver intense heat and humidity.
Winter: Insulate walls and ceilings. Use heated waterers and deep bedding for warmth.
Summer: Increase ventilation and provide shade. Chickens are especially vulnerable to heat stress.
Tip: Install a frost-free hydrant inside the barn for year-round water access.
Predator Protection
Chickens are especially vulnerable to predators like raccoons, foxes, and hawks. Goats and sheep are less at risk but still need secure fencing.
Use hardware cloth instead of chicken wire.
Lock doors and windows at night.
Install motion-activated lights or alarms.
Example Layout for a Small Ontario Farm
Here’s a sample layout for a 30’ x 40’ barn:
10’ x 10’ Chicken Coop: Elevated roosts, nesting boxes, secure run.
15’ x 20’ Goat Zone: Climbing structures, hay feeder, dry bedding.
10’ x 15’ Sheep Zone: Quiet sleeping area, mineral block, rubber mats.
5’ x 30’ Central Aisle: Feed storage, water access, tool rack.
This layout allows for efficient movement, species separation, and easy cleaning.
Smart Barns, Happy Herds
Designing a multi-species barn is a rewarding challenge that can lead to a more efficient and enjoyable farming experience. By understanding the unique needs of chickens, goats, and sheep, and applying thoughtful layout strategies, Ontario farmers can create a safe, comfortable, and productive environment for their animals.
Whether you’re expanding your hobby farm or starting fresh, investing time in smart barn design will pay off in healthier livestock and smoother daily operations.
Looking for personalized advice on livestock housing, pasture rotation, or farm planning? Reach out to us today—our team is here to help Ontario farmers with expert guidance tailored to your unique operation.