Hardware Cloth on bottom of the run...

[TheCluckFamily]

Our original idea to help predator proof was to put hardware cloth on the bottom of the run and cover with dirt and sand. Being a newbie to chickens, I thought it was a good idea. A lady at Lowe's last night begged me not to do that saying it will amputate their feet. What are your thoughts? I wasn't trying to be cruel... I just don't know what I'm doing yet!

 

[azelgin]

I'm not sure how she figured they would cut their feet off? Isn't the wire going to be covered with dirt/sand? Even if it weren't, chickens are routinely kept in cages with wire floors. If it didn't work, I'm sure the practice would have ended years ago. Go for it.

 

[TheCluckFamily]

She said because of the scratching they would go underneath the dirt and their feet would get caught.

 

[dheltzel]

Never get poultry advice from a home center!
This is why. You're fine using hardware cloth on the bottom of the run. Very safe, whether covered or not.

 

[TheCluckFamily]

Im so confused about all of this! Lol.

 

[ladycat]

I put a hardware cloth apron on the outsides of the pens, it works well. Like this:

 

[hbhoffman]

I have the same question! Due to rats I need to enclose the own completely. I was thinking 1/4" hardware cloth all the way around and attached to the bottom with 6" of sand & dirt on top of the wire. In the fall, adding leaves, winter some straw.
Any further thoughts?

 

[ladycat]

1/2" will keep out rats, and will be a bit stronger than 1/4".

 

[hbhoffman]

Thanks! I will get 1/2" then. Since rats tunnel I plan on enclosing the bottom as well. Any dangers for theh hens when they dig & scratch?

 

[ladycat]

Thanks! I will get 1/2" then. Since rats tunnel I plan on enclosing the bottom as well. Any dangers for theh hens when they dig & scratch?

Nah. Just bury it a couple inches, the hens should be fine with it.