Looking good!
But I agree with Aart about the washers, although I attach wood trim around my wire edges, like 1x2 furring strips. I use a staple gun to attach the wire before the furring strip is added.
It was a great read!
The thing is, they don't just dig. They have hands and can open things. That's why they are so dangerous. I saw a metal window that they pried open by bending it.
They also love tuna in oil. And marshmallows I think but marshmallows don't have that smell to attract...
I was reading all that in suspense....and What a happy ending! So glad your mom has good hearing and your hens were saved.
What's the ammonia soaked rags for? They can squeeze right in behind that board it looks like to me.
I'm sure they will be back...an interruption won't scare them from...