I am so sorry for your loss. I lost 5 in two attacks and was devastated. I can only imagine what losing 10 in one night must have felt like. Congratulations on getting the troop of 4.
You are very timely in your post. I recently heard something that convinced me of the truth of what you said...
The snake problem can be handled using deer netting. See pictures below. We have many deer around here and my wife hates them. I usually just put up deer netting to try and keep them away from her plants. But on many occasions, where the netting was too close to the ground, we have found snakes...
Sorry for the delay in answering your question. You didn't say what the size of the chicken wire was. 1 inch, 2 inches? The 2x4 welded wire will provide the strength and if you are using 1 inch chicken wire you should be okay. I would caution you to make very sure all sides around the top are...
I have posted for a few days now that deer netting will stop the. I went out today and found the proof. The snake is over 5 ft and was dead by the time I found it.
You didn't say how you "vented" the coop floor. If your coop is high enough off the ground, a coon will find a soft spot and can reach through. Please provide as much detail as possible or even pictures and we will be happy to help.