Enclose the run?

[crous1ca]

We are trying to work on our run...do you recommend enclosing the top with a roof or hardware wire or is it fine to leave it open?

 

[Gallo del Cielo]

If you can afford to cover the run, you really should consider doing it. Your birds will be much more secure. Seems like everything likes the taste of chicken.

 

[Louise's Country Closet]

Quote:
Ditto. It's nice not having to worry about something coming in and scooping up your chickens!

 

[ARose4Heaven]

Ditto. A real roof is great too, cuts down on mud, and makes it better when it rains.

 

[Louise's Country Closet]

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I've always loved that idea - I wish my husband would put a roof over mine instead!

 

[muddyhorse]

I have anti bird netting over the runs. you can get a 45' x 14' roll at home depot for $20.00. it is worth it. hang something shinny and fluttery on the underside so hawks can "see" it. you do not want to have to remove a hawk

 

[Momagain1]

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why do we want hawks to see it? isnt the primary reason of putting the top on so they DONT get the chickens..I'm obviously missing the point here..still new..n learning!

 

[farmer_lew]

Open top run = buffet for predators

Don't mean to sound crude, but if you have ANY predators in your area, definitely cover the run. You will be glad you did.

 

[gryeyes]

The netting is hoping the hawks don't break through it and get the chickens.

The shiny thing (like a CD on monofilament or dental floss) is to spook any cruising hawks. So they don't get interested in what they see through the netting.

 

[Momagain1]

Quote:
ok; thanks; thats what I needed to understand!!! why the CD