Another Coop/Run Question

[mrsgibber]

Ok, still working out all the details for our girls soon to be new home. My husband and I were debating whether to cover or not to cover the run. I feel like if we cover it we'll have to make it shorter so I won't be able to get in there comfortably. I say leave it uncovered and keep it a good 6 ft tall. He is more worried of running the risk that a fox or racoon or hawk will get into the run during the day and kill one of the hens. Of course, my neighbor down the street doesn't even fence his in. The just free range all over his open fields. I would think if those guys have been safe enough mine in my back yard would be too. Any thoughts?

 

[MrsShag]

Our coop is 6 ft high and covered with fencing. I think it depends on where you live. We are out there and have lots of hawks and eagles and lots and lots of other predators so I didn't feel safe leaving the top wide open.

 

[jhmoore]

I too would say it depends where you live. I'm in Michigan, and I know I am very happy that we decided to cover our run. Not so much for predators, but because on rainy or snowy days, our girls are still happy to go out in the run since they are more or less out of the elements.

 

[mrsgibber]

THanks. I think the hubby wins out here. I was just reading my book and it mentioned it would be good to keep the wild birds out that may carry disease or eat the feed, etc.

 

[patandchickens]

I forget, do you live somewhere that gets snow. If you do, you need to factor in the weight of your heaviest snowstorm plus however much rain you might get on top of it, when designing a top for the run. If you go back in this forum's archives to, what, mid December?? 2008, you will see all sorts of peoples' wire-topped runs getting flattened.

Just something to take into account,

Pat