Welcome. I am in SC as well. Hopefully you will have power soon. I am still without power. What we mean by predator proofing, you will need to have them enclosed in 1/2 inch hardware cloth, walls and ceiling. If you are not on cement, then you need to use hardware cloth to make sure nothing can dig under the enclosure.
I am going to take the other side with respect to brooding indoors vs outdoors, especially since you are new to chickens. I like a controlled/consistent environment for anything I have to watch closely. This includes sickness, a broody hen that won't eat, or brooding. Indoors you can keep your heating plate consistent (but please give them at least 1/2 the space to get away from the heat), easily check butts, listen for loud fast chirping (a sign they are cold), and frequently change waters that are constantly filled with pine shavings and sometimes poop.
and Welcome to Backyard Chickens.
to have you here with us. Enjoy your time here at BYC!
