I see your guys point, but as you pointed out the hardware cloth doesn't look great , so I think I will fully vent my soffit and will get the same effect without unsightly hardware cloth on the soffit.
I'm building a 8x10 and 10x12 run. So far I am $1000 in. But way overbuilding it, like a house. Metal roof solid floor that I painted with garage floor paint. Built treadles and in-wall feeders. I am to the point where I am ready for siding, doors and windows. so I am guessing $650 for that and...