Chickens won’t stop digging along the run fence!

[Alexthechickenkeeper]

My dad and I built a large run for my chickens, hoping that they would dig more in the center than the outskirts but they won’t stop digging under the fence and we have now had 3 chicks get stuck under the fence and two died. We have tried and tried filling it in but it doesn’t last more than a couple hours. We have chicken wire on the ground outside of the fence so predators can’t get in and they can’t get out. What can I do to deter them from digging?

 

[IttyBittyBirdy]

Do you have it dug down? It's recommended to dig down 12" and bury the fence.

 

[cherrynberry]

My dad and I built a large run for my chickens, hoping that they would dig more in the center than the outskirts but they won’t stop digging under the fence and we have now had 3 chicks get stuck under the fence and two died. We have tried and tried filling it in but it doesn’t last more than a couple hours. We have chicken wire on the ground outside of the fence so predators can’t get in and they can’t get out. What can I do to deter them from digging?

For our quail run, I surround the edges of the run with heavy stones...It may work for you too...I am not exactly sure as to what your setup is like, but I hope this helps!

 

[3KillerBs]

They always dig right where you don't want them to.

I keep some blocks and bricks handy to stick into the holes that are threatening to undermine the fence.

 

[SueT]

I put rocks along the inside of the fence. Eventually you collect enuf to cover long stretches....

 

[3KillerBs]

I put rocks along the inside of the fence. Eventually you collect enuf to cover long stretches....
View attachment 2681820

The place I live is called "The Sandhills" for good reason. Thus I have to use bricks and blocks.

 

[Secondof9]

I also use rocks along the fence line in the run to prevent escapes. It seems that chickens dig everywhere you don't want them to!! I've also noticed they dig at the base of plants making big craters & nearly uprooting the plants, especially my blueberries. I've had to rebury them (the plants) a few times. Maybe that's where the best bugs and worms are?? Crazy chickens!

 

[Alexthechickenkeeper]

The place I live is called "The Sandhills" for good reason. Thus I have to use bricks and blocks.

The place I live is also called the Sandhills!The ground is super easy for them to dig up and they can’t get enough of it. I’ll definitely have to get some more stones!

 

[rosemarythyme]

I use fallen branches to keep them from digging right up against the fence - they can't dig their way out, but it's just annoying. I also have rocks and bricks around fenceposts since they like eating the concrete.

 

[aart]

I had to put boards, logs, bricks, and pavers where I didn't want them to dig.
Mighty excavators, they are.....
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/excavation-by-birds-a-word-of-warning.1086535/