Do chickens need sun or shade - what is the right type of fence?

[myblackf150]

I am concidering upgrading the size of my run and my questions are: What are the pros and cons of using the green plastic fencing material vs. using standard chicken wire. What is the best fencing for the cost? What is needed on the top of the run? Do the chickens (all hens) need a outside roof so they will have outside shade or do they need sun?

 

[Tala]

Quote:
Um, depends on your predator concerns I guess.

I would never use anything less than "welded wire" (which is horse fence) because of dogs. Plastic fence and chicken wire fence do absolutely NOTHING to keep predators out. However, it is fine to use if your chickens are already inside a secure area and you just need to divide chicken areas (different breeds or ages).

You need a top if you are concerened about hawks, or predators that climb over fences.

Chickens will need some sun and some shade. They love to sunbathe, but also overheat easily in the summertime, so provide both.

 

[patandchickens]

Quote:
Neither will keep out a predator that actually wants to get in. I would not use either of them at all, personally.

If you want cheap, get some welded wire that is no larger than 2x4" mesh (it must be heavy gauge and galvanized), use that, and add something smaller mesh along the bottom 2' to prevent reach-through. Even chickenwire or 1/2" plastic garden netting will "more or less" work for the purpose of just preventing reach-through. Remember you will also want some means of preventing predators from digging into the run -- either sink the base of the run fence at 12-18" into the ground, or do a 2' or wider apron all around, using heavy galvanized wire mesh or pavers or whatever.

What is needed on the top of the run?

Just depends how much security you want. A solid, well-engineered roof is best and safest (although obviously only feasible for a small run) - it is also pretty expensive unless you happen to have the right materials laying around. A roof of 2x4 welded wire, STRONGLY SUPPORTED, will keep out most predators including raccoons. Netting draped or stapled over the top of the run will keep out hawks/owls and keep chickens in, but will not keep out raccoons or possums or dogs or whatever. An open top is cheapest, but you may find your chickens sometimes go 'over the wall' or hawks or fourlegged predators get in and eat them. It's a personal choice.

Do the chickens (all hens) need a outside roof so they will have outside shade or do they need sun?

What kind of climate are you in? If you are somewhere iwth very hot summers, for sure they need good outside shade, preferably a large area of it, as chickens really do not handle heat well. Even in cooler areas, some shade is good. It is also nice if some of the run can be sunny, though.

Good luck, have fun,

Pat​