You make good points, @Geena. One of many things I like about keeping chickens is that there are so many ways you can do it. Depending on your space, budget, DIY capabilities (or lack thereof), you can find a way to give your flock a safe and comfortable home. I knew Omlet's pros/cons when I...
Yes, it's helpful to attach the Eglu outside the run, though I modified that as well. I consider the Eglu and 6' run to be their coop. As such, I hardened it with HC, protected with clear tarps and made sure no mice can get in at their food is inside.
I got Omlet's kit to attach the Eglu and...
So sorry you lost your chickens. I also have an Omlet coop and walk-in run, which I love. I did understand it would need hardware cloth to make predator proof. (Thanks to all my BYC peeps!)
I'm sure others will roll their eyes at the money I spent on my coop/run, only to spend more for hardware...