When building large framed arks it became apparent that the amount of room within the structure was not being fully utilised. By simply putting the house above the run the resulting arks make more efficient use of the area provided for the number of birds housed. The Boughtons cover less ground space than arks of more traditional format and have the added advantage of a covered run, which gives both the hens and costly feed a degree of weather protection. This layout also satisfies the birds' natural instincts by allowing them to go up at night to roost. The Boughtons are specifically designed for bantams and medium sized birds, it is not thought suitable for large fowl. All the range have full length side doors, access to the runs, at both ends, removable perching and a hinged ladder which may be drawn up to secure the birds at night. The nesting boxes are located at the end of the ark and have their own external egg collecting doors. To stop undesirable night occupation of the nests we have incorporated night shutters, which keeps nest fowling to a minimum and cuts down on egg cleaning time. All have stout carrying handles