Originally posted by Rhapsody:

Originally posted by Archdeacon Monseigneur:

there's no need to build your chicken pen outside of your base. you can put it in meadows.

Well, no, but it might be helpful in case there's a problem with invasion events killing the animals. That was my point, I guess I should have mentioned it. It can also save space if you have limited land area to build on.

If animals are too far away they won't breed or lay eggs afaik if you are not around to see it.

Couple of mine died to bats. Simply moved them into an iron and stone enclosure and haven't had any issues since. About 8 or 9 seem ideal for laying eggs.