And what about predators?

[rockiemtchix]

Predators are probably my biggest concern as a newbie!

Bears, mt lions, fox, crafty coons, squirrels (?), and of course neighbor pets...what the heck was I thinking??

So I really need the absolute toughest, most secure method for my coop. I figure if a bear or lion wants in, it'll get in. But I'd like to deter as much as possible. The best method I've seen to day is to lay hardware cloth along entire bottom of the attaches run and allow it to stick out about 8-12". Then cover those portions protruding out w 12x12 pavers. Seems like a good idea, but anyone in mt region w a tried and true method?
Thx!!

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, rockiemtchix, and

! Happy you joined our flock! You are wise to be concerned about predators! I can't even imagine what a bear-proof or mountain lion-proof coop would look like! I mainly have to contend with coyotes and raccoons. I think good hardware - hinges and latches, and heavy hardware cloth will get you a long way down the road to at least having a really good predator resistant coop. Another option might be electric fencing - don't know if getting zapped by an electric fence will turn back a bear or cougar but it might be worth a try. You can search the Predator thread below or do a search for how others deal with these types of beasts. Good luck to you!!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/13/predators-and-pests

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[sumi]

Hello and welcome to BYC

Glad you joined us!

 

[ChickenPeep]

From Kansas! Glad you joined us!

 

[roostersandhens]

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. The use of hardware cloth and pavers will probably keep most predators out of your coop/run. An electric fence may be needed for bear, cougar, or dog attacks. If faced with these predators, 'bait' the hot wire with bacon strips so that they become educated when their nose or mouth contacts the wire.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!

Glad you joined us!!

 

[liz9910]

 

[rockiemtchix]

RIGHT! I heard about baiting with bacon. We considered doing that with our beehives up here, but instead built a stronger enclosure to protect against the bears and coons. I even heard that the Colorado Div of Wildlife will pay for the fencing if you report a loss to them due to wildlife attacks! thanks for jogging my memory and thanks for taking the time.