Coop design - questions on keeping rodents out

[Homesteader82]

I'm looking at building my own version of a coop, similar to this one: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1...-ranch-chicken-coop-14_1800x.jpg?v=1489556275

I plan on placing an enclosed run around it using hardware mesh. I want to keep potential mice and rats out; should I use hardware mesh along the bottom? I am planning on having a hardware skirt around the perimeter to keep foxes out.

 

[mowin]

Most don't line the run with HC. Chickens like to dig, and the HC could damage there feet if they get down that far.

If you do, I'd make sure it's buried several inches deep with sand or gravel.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I am planning on having a hardware skirt around the perimeter to keep foxes out.

The skirt alone should be enough to keep rats out and probably mice as well, depending on the size of the openings in the mesh.

I wouldn't ever put wire mesh under foot, chickens like to dig and scratch and dealing with foot injuries is a chore.

 

[blackdog043]

How many chickens are you planning on having and how big are you planning on making the coop?
That coop looks like it will be good for 2 chickens, OK maybe 3. Your in New England, they may be spending extra time inside the coop during the winter. Where will the food and water be for them?

 

[rosemarythyme]

How many chickens are you planning on having and how big are you planning on making the coop?
That coop looks like it will be good for 2 chickens, OK maybe 3. Your in New England, they may be spending extra time inside the coop during the winter. Where will the food and water be for them?

Oh, I admit I didn't look at the coop. That might not be... the best design to copy, as there's several design flaws at a glance. For example, low roosts, way too many nest boxes that eat up space, not enough ventilation, only space for maybe 2 or 3 birds (which is fine if that's all you can have), run space for maybe 1 bird max, etc.

 

[TomZilla43]

Hello and . Honestly the BEST advice that I can give is if you're building your own coop build bigger than what you think you actually need, and if you have space/resources to do so don't underestimate the importance of being able to walk in to the coop to be able to clean and do to maintenance etc. I initially built a tractor coop which was fine but after a year decided to build a considerably larger stationary coop that had storage and I could walk in and do the chicken things that ya have to do and it was SO much less taxing and just easier to work with that I've never looked back with any regret. If you do a bit of searching here, there is a plethora of coop build ideas and some folks even offer plans for the coops that they have built if you find a setup that you like. Best of luck with your coop build and your flock.