Chicken tractor digging?still

[Medda]

Hi all,
I’m about to start building a chicken tractor (first thing I’ve ever built!) and I’m concerned with how to prevent digging predators? The run will be covered in 1/2 inch hardware cloth and the ladies will be secured in a 4x4 coop over the run at night. However I know I have stray dogs in the area as well as raccoons, possums, etc.

My main concern is during the days I have to be away from home for work. Mainly dogs/coyotes digging under the run when I’m not there to keep an eye on them. Any suggestions for securing the run from digging that would still be mobile?
Thanks! Medda

 

[jthornton]

You could cover the bottom with 2x4" welded fence.

JT

 

[Medda]

Thanks JT. I plan to cover the entire run in 1/2 inch hardware cloth, all the way to the bottom 2x4. I guess I’m concerned with dogs digging under the bottom board that rests on the ground.

If I was doing a stationary coop, I would bury wire or do an apron of wire but not sure how to do something like that with a mobile design.
Thanks, Medda

 

[jthornton]

Thanks JT. I plan to cover the entire run in 1/2 inch hardware cloth, all the way to the bottom 2x4. I guess I’m concerned with dogs digging under the bottom board that rests on the ground.

If I was doing a stationary coop, I would bury wire or do an apron of wire but not sure how to do something like that with a mobile design.
Thanks, Medda

Just cover the bottom with 2x4 welded fencing, the grass will poke up through the fence but even if a dog dug a tunnel under the tractor it can't get inside.

JT

 

[Medda]

Oh I understand now. You are saying enclose the bottom of the run itself with fencing. I was thinking something on the outside of the bottom like an apron but I got it now.

LOL, it sometimes takes me a moment.

 

[Brahma Chicken5000]

And put a perch in the tractor in case something does dig under at least it can’t grab a chicken’s leg.

 

[aart]

Just cover the bottom with 2x4 welded fencing, the grass will poke up through the fence but even if a dog dug a tunnel under the tractor it can't get inside.

JT

That can make it harder to move the tractor, just keep that in mind.

You could do hinged aprons, but it's tricky:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/aarts-hoop-coop-chicken-tractor.72211/

 

[Fairview01]

That can make it harder to move the tractor, just keep that in mind.

You could do hinged aprons, but it's tricky:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/aarts-hoop-coop-chicken-tractor.72211/

Exactly. I have no trouble moving mine at all. Works great

 

[aart]

Exactly. I have no trouble moving mine at all. Works great

Got pics?

 

[Fairview01]

Got pics?

Yup but not until tomorrow am. I didnt hinge the apron. I laid it out like you have it shown but my runners are 4x4s. I laid it up against the timber then stomped into an apron and stapled it to the side. The front has a 45.degree cut to make a runner. I just hook my winch from my atv on it and move it where ever. Never ever had a problem with it balling up or getting it ripped off. It works great.