Extra run for free ranging during the day

[Layniep3]

I want to build an extra play area for my chickens to free range that connects to their predator proof run/coop. It would need to have some sort of chicken wire ceiling to keep out a hawk that won't leave them alone. I considered buying an enclosed run from Amazon but the reviews aren't very positive for any of them. Plus, I figured I could make a much larger enclosure if I build it myself. Any suggestions?

 

[Huntmaster]

It would need to have some sort of chicken wire ceiling to keep out a hawk that won't leave them alone.

I use a 2" knotted netting to topmost of my enclosers/pens, works well for me but there are a few steps you need to do if you're in heavy snow area. Pic for example.

 

[Huntmaster]

This a pic of a few of my breeding pens showing doors, I just framed from the 4x4s used for fencing. I use 2" heavy duty knotted netting can't remember right off hand where I ordered from it's been a good while. I will try to look it up for you.

 

[Huntmaster]

I like this door best on one of my smaller grow out pens.

 

[linguini]

This is exactly what I was thinking but wasn't sure how to implement a human door. I plan on creating a connecting tunnel that connects their enclosed run to the new "play yard." What kind of netting did you use for the top and where did you get it?

you can get aviary netting from amazon, very inexpensive. we use 2x2x8 lumber tied to t-post (easies to do without having to dig!) with a flat piece of wood board on top to hold up the nettings. this is for top cover only, not fences.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071G8G346/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[Coffetym]

Chickenlandia, on YouTube.com suggests using fish netting for the roof. If you live near a fishing area you can pick it up for free.

When I began my chicken run, I found some poultry netting on Amazon that was really reasonable. My run is 40’x40’ so I purchased a net that was 50’x50’ with 1” square holes. If I remember correctly, the cost was less than $60. I wasn’t sure how durable that it was but, it is very strong for the price & size string. It will not only stop birds, but they tend to get trapped in the net & have to have assistance getting free.

 

[Cpgrnwd]

Im in the same situation and my coop and run are on a steep hill which complicates things. Im wondering if I should add on to the run or build an adjacent run. I have considered electric netting but would like to have something more permanent. The idea of a cattle panel tractor seems appealing to me but i don't think it would be able to use on my hill.

 

[Layniep3]

I use a 2" knotted netting to topmost of my enclosers/pens, works well for me but there are a few steps you need to do if you're in heavy snow area. Pic for example.View attachment 3745858

This is exactly what I was thinking but wasn't sure how to implement a human door. I plan on creating a connecting tunnel that connects their enclosed run to the new "play yard." What kind of netting did you use for the top and where did you get it?

 

[Huntmaster]

Nice setup. Do you ever get issues with foxes with netting? I'm looking at building an extension on my run but the 'worrier' in me can't get away from hardware cloth.

No everything is fenced in with predator aprons around bottom edges and up 24" of fencing. Netting is only on top to cover pens.

 

[Penpal]

Chickenlandia, on YouTube.com suggests using fish netting for the roof. If you live near a fishing area you can pick it up for free.