I have some black snakes around, not messing with my chickens so far. Now, I have my coops like 3 feet from ground, fenced and so far no problem. Like some of you I live close to the sticks far from city, many snakes but there are a few mice and by the way Black snake is the sworn enemy of...
I have the run running just like that. Just sink a few 2x2 in farther corners so wind don't take it down. Also I put a piece of zinc in an angle to help with shade. I am in humid hot climate put sand in top of grass. For coop floor make sure you made it easy to clean I recommend make floor...
Well, I raise australorps and they look rooster kind. Look for coloration of comb. Males grow big red and fast. Also check for attitude they are more alert and jumpy and noisy. They are a good breed to start, really tolerant to weather but roo could be loud and bossy...