Are Chicken Coops Loud? What to Expect and How to Keep Things Quiet
Thinking about adding chickens to your backyard but worried about the noise?
You’re not alone. One of the most common questions we hear is: “Are chicken coops loud?” The answer is: it depends—mostly on the breed, the time of day, and how your coop is built.
Let’s take a look at what makes some chickens noisier than others, how your coop design can affect sound levels, and what you can do to reduce noise and keep your hens calm and happy.
Are Chickens Naturally Loud?
Chickens aren’t loud all the time, but they definitely make some noise—especially during certain moments of the day. For example:
- Laying an egg – Hens often announce their success with a loud “egg song”
- Morning wake-up calls – Roosters crow, but even hens get excited when the sun rises
- Alerting to danger – Chickens may squawk loudly if they feel threatened
- Social chatter – Chickens talk to each other with clucks and coos, usually quiet but constant
So while you won’t hear nonstop squawking, you can expect occasional noise, especially in the morning or when laying eggs.
Quiet Chicken Breeds vs. Noisy Breeds
Some breeds are naturally more vocal than others. If you’re looking to keep the peace with neighbors, breed choice matters.
Quiet Chicken Breeds (Good for Urban or Suburban Backyards):
- Buff Orpington – Gentle, calm, and relatively quiet
- Cochin – Fluffy, sweet-tempered, and soft-voiced
- Australorp – Quiet, easygoing, and great egg layers
- Barred Rock – Sociable but not noisy
- Silkies – Small and calm, with soft voices
Loud Chicken Breeds (Better for Rural Areas):
- Leghorn – Excellent layers, but very chatty
- Rhode Island Red – Hardy and productive, but can be noisy
- Polish – Their big head feathers don’t stop them from being loud
- Easter Eggers – Fun personalities, but known to squawk a bit
Roosters, no matter the breed, are typically louder than hens—especially in the early morning hours.
Coop Features That Affect Noise Levels
The design of your chicken coop can make a difference in how much sound escapes:
Coops That Tend to Be Louder:
- Thin siding or metal panels – These echo and amplify sound
- Poorly insulated walls – Noise travels more easily through uninsulated surfaces
- Open windows or vents near living spaces – These allow sound to carry straight out
Coops That Help Muffle Sound:
- Solid wood or LP SmartSide siding – Thicker walls help absorb noise
- Insulated walls and roofs – Not just for temperature, they reduce noise too
- Well-sealed doors and nesting box lids – Fewer gaps mean less noise escape
- Coops with rear placement in the yard – Placing the coop away from patios or bedrooms helps too
Tips to Keep Chickens Calm and Reduce Noise
If your chickens seem especially noisy, it could be a sign of stress, boredom, or something bothering them. Here’s how to help:
- Provide plenty of space – Overcrowding can cause hens to squabble
- Offer enrichment – Hanging treats, scratch areas, and perches help them stay busy
- Keep a regular routine – Chickens like consistency with feeding, coop access, and bedtime
- Secure the coop at night – A safe, dark space helps them rest quietly
- Minimize sudden disturbances – Loud noises, pets, or predators can startle hens into making noise
A calm hen is a quiet hen. If you treat your flock well and give them a peaceful, secure space, they’re far more likely to stay quiet.
Final Thoughts
Chicken coops aren’t silent—but they don’t have to be noisy, either. Choosing quieter breeds, building or buying a well-insulated coop, and keeping your hens happy and calm can all make a big difference.
If you’re looking for a coop that helps reduce noise, check these chicken coop models with solid siding and insulation. We offer quiet-friendly setups from brands like:
Still have questions? Reach out—we’re happy to help you create a peaceful backyard for you and your chickens.