Constructing my run

[MinHemmingford]

Hi all,

I hope this question hasn't been asked a million times, and if it has I hope you'll indulge me. I've just got my first flock of 5 hens. They are currently getting used to their coop; I've been told to keep them in their coop for 5 days before letting them out. They are about 9 months old and were previously totally free range.

We have jobs and can't be here to watch over them during the day. I want to build them a run so that they can be outdoors while we're at work. When we are home we'll let them out on our property.

My coop is tucked in the woods a bit and I wonder if the run should have a net or wire mesh covering. I don't think hawks would be in there but we do have them in the open fields. We have foxes and raccoons though.

Attached is a photo of my coop, the run will be constructed to the left of it. Thanks for your advice!!

 

[Mutt Farm]

Hi! Welcome!

Good looking coop! If you have fox and raccoon, those can be nasty chicken killing buggars even in broad daylight! Have a look at some posts in this forum as to how to fortify your run. Drop by the New Members page and introduce yourself so we can give you a proper welcome! Here's the link https://www.backyardchickens.com/newsearch?search=new+member+introductions
Best of luck to you! If you have questions give a shout. plenty of helpful eggsperience here.

 

[Caleb999]

Nice coop. I would suggest a roof of some sort. Raccoons can be pretty good at climbing.