Nestera Chicken Lofdge Review
Choosing the right chicken coop means balancing comfort for your hens with convenience for you. In this Nestera Chicken Lodge review, we take a close look at Nestera’s mid-raised plastic coop design. With its clever elevated structure, weather-resistant build and red mite-resistant materials, the Lodge provides a secure and easy-to-maintain home for your chickens.
Design and materials
The Chicken Lodge is part of Nestera’s premium range of plastic chicken coops, designed for long-term durability, easy cleaning and excellent bird welfare. Unlike the ground-level Nestera Chicken House, the Lodge is elevated 27cm off the ground, offering chickens a sheltered area underneath while improving access for keepers.
Constructed from 100% recycled UV-resistant plastic, the panels are designed to withstand the British weather year-round. The smooth surfaces make cleaning far easier than traditional timber coops and help prevent red mite infestations, a major issue for many wooden coops.
The raised design also benefits chickens during wet or hot weather, giving them shade from the sun or a dry space when it rains. This added shelter is especially useful for breeds that prefer spending time outdoors but still like somewhere to escape harsh conditions.
Sizes and flock capacity
The Lodge comes in the same three sizes as the Nestera Chicken House, with generous space allowances depending on the number and type of birds:
- Small Lodge: up to 2-3 large breed chickens, 3-5 medium hybrids, or 6-9 bantams
- Medium Lodge: up to 3-4 large breed chickens, 5-8 medium hybrids, or 8-12 bantams
- Large Lodge: up to 5 large breed chickens, 8 medium hybrids, or 12-15 bantams
The interior design remains spacious and well-ventilated across all sizes, with perches and removable nest boxes as standard.
Access and usability
One of the standout features of the Nestera Lodge is its convenience for keepers. The 27cm raised platform brings the coop entrance, nest boxes and rear access panels up to a more comfortable working height. This means egg collection, cleaning, and routine checks can be carried out with less bending, which is particularly useful for those with limited mobility or who simply want to make their chicken keeping a little easier.
Chickens access the Lodge via a secure non-slip ladder, designed to provide a gentle incline for easy use by both heavier and lighter breeds. The ladder is sturdy, with grip bars across each rung to ensure safe footing in all weather conditions.
The Lodge also includes Nestera’s tried and tested ventilation system. Adjustable vents allow you to control airflow inside the coop depending on flock size and seasonal weather. This flexibility supports a healthy environment for your birds by reducing moisture, ammonia build-up and the risk of respiratory issues.
Red mite resistance
As with all Nestera models, the Lodge’s recycled plastic build plays a key role in minimising red mite problems. The smooth, non-porous surfaces leave fewer hiding places for mites compared to timber structures. Combined with easy access for thorough cleaning, this helps keep red mite infestations under control with far less effort.
The Poultry Club of Great Britain has even commented on Nestera’s mite-resistant design, noting its robust build and effective ventilation as positive welfare features.
Cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the Lodge’s modular design. The roof, nest box lid, and rear access door all remove easily without tools, giving you full access to every part of the interior. Droppings trays slide out for fast waste removal, and because plastic does not absorb moisture, it dries quickly after washing.
Unlike many timber coops that require regular preservative treatments, the Nestera Lodge is virtually maintenance-free. It will not rot, warp, or degrade in harsh weather, and the manufacturer offers a 25-year guarantee on the plastic panels.
Predator protection
The robust construction helps protect chickens against foxes and other predators. The locking rear access door and secure nest box lid provide solid defences, while the elevated design offers some added safety by keeping birds slightly off the ground. When combined with a secure run, the Lodge forms a strong, safe environment for backyard flocks.
Assembly and delivery
Assembly of the Nestera Lodge is straightforward and can usually be completed within an hour or two using basic tools. All panels arrive pre-cut, with clear instructions provided. Many keepers report that putting the coop together is easier than expected.
The coop arrives flat-packed, with delivery offered directly through Nestera’s website or approved stockists.
Is the Nestera Lodge right for you?
The Lodge offers an excellent combination of practicality, durability, and chicken welfare. Its raised design makes caring for your flock easier while giving your hens added protection from the elements. The simple cleaning process and mite-resistant materials also make it ideal for anyone wanting to avoid the challenges that often come with wooden coops.
For smaller back gardens through to larger flocks, the availability of three sizes ensures there is a Lodge model suitable for most setups.
Nestera Lodge review: FAQs
How is the Lodge different from the Nestera Chicken House?
The key difference is the 27cm raised design. The Lodge offers the same internal layout and features as the Chicken House but stands off the ground to create extra sheltered space underneath and easier access for keepers.
Will my chickens use the ladder?
Yes. The Lodge ladder is designed for easy access, with wide rungs and plenty of grip. Even heavier breeds typically adjust very quickly.
Can the Lodge be used with automatic door openers?
Yes, Nestera’s models are compatible with a range of automatic door openers, including their own.
Is the plastic safe for chickens?
Absolutely. The recycled plastic used by Nestera is non-toxic, UV-stabilised, and specifically designed for safe animal use.
Does the Lodge come with a guarantee?
Yes. Nestera offers a 25-year warranty on the plastic components.
For more information, visit the Nestera Chicken Lodge page.
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Kevin O’Hara got his first chickens back in 1972. A backyard chicken keeper based in Yorkshire, he created of KeepingChickens.uk back in 2012. With years of hands-on experience, he shares practical, UK-specific advice to help others care for happy, healthy hens. Learn more about Kevin on the author page.
