Last updated: July 2026 • Reviewed by The Coop Score team • Coop Score: 7.5/10
Rita Marie’s Amish-built hardwood coops score 7.5/10 overall, with the highest Climate Fit score in our full lineup at 9/10. Thick solid-wood construction and a wide range of sizes make this the strongest pick for cold-climate keepers, at a premium price point.
Coop Score Breakdown
| Criterion | Score | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Predator Resistance | 8/10 | Full hardware-cloth walls, secure latching; no buried apron |
| Climate Fit | 9/10 | Thick hardwood walls with vent placement above roost height; highest in our lineup |
| Capacity Accuracy | 7/10 | Stated capacity runs modestly optimistic on the largest models |
| Upkeep Load | 6/10 | Solid but not full-width droppings tray; roughly 20-35 minutes weekly |
What We Tested
We ran a Rita Marie’s coop through a full winter at our Minnesota cold-climate test property (USDA Zone 4), tracking moisture buildup, draft points, and how the vent placement performed in sub-zero conditions. We also checked hardware-cloth gauge and measured interior space against the stated capacity across two of the size options offered.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: the best cold-weather performance in our lineup — thick walls hold heat without trapping moisture.
- Pro: wide range of sizes available, from small backyard flocks up to larger configurations.
- Con: among the more expensive options in our lineup, reflecting the hardwood construction and Amish craftsmanship.
- Con: stated capacity on the largest models runs a bit optimistic — measure your intended flock against actual interior square footage before sizing up.
Who It’s Actually Right For
Best for: keepers in USDA Zones 3-5 with genuinely hard winters who want a coop that needs minimal winterizing, and are willing to pay for it.
Skip it if: you’re in a warm climate where the extra insulation goes unused, or budget is a primary constraint — see our Best Budget Chicken Coops guide instead.
Where to Buy
See how Rita Marie’s stacks up against other cold-climate options on our Best Chicken Coops for Cold Climates page, or check Best Chicken Coops Overall for current pricing across all our top picks.