Fencing Gap Thoughts?

[sherl0ck]

Looking to put in a backyard fence for future chickens to run around backyard. Would likely be going with Cochin or Buff Orpington breeds.

I have an option between a 3 inch and 4 inch gap between the fence pickets. (4 inch more money)

Which size would you go with to keep Cochin or Buff from escaping?

Thanks!

​

 

[3KillerBs]

Welcome to BYC. Where, in general, are you? Climate matters and when it comes to fencing, your local predators matter.

What type of fencing are you considering?

 

[MarkRainbolt]

Tell you the truth. No gaps if you want to keep chickens in and predators OUT!!!!
Mark

 

[sherl0ck]

It would be 4 foot alumium or steal fence.

 

[sherl0ck]

Central Illinois too, thanks.

 

[froggyphore]

neither would be small enough to keep them in until they're well into adulthood, in my experience. wouldn't keep predators out either. there's also the chance of them just flying over. my chickens could fly over 6' fencing until they were a year old. they can still jump about five feet.

 

[3KillerBs]

Photos?

 

[aart]

I have an option between a 3 inch and 4 inch gap between the fence pickets.

3" would be better to keep them from squeezing out between the pickets.
But.....

It would be 4 foot alumium or steal fence.

.....they may well fly over 4'.

 

[3KillerBs]

.....they may well fly over 4'.

An important note.

Chickens seem less likely to fly over the electric net than to fly over solid fence -- probably because they can land on top of the sturdier material and then go down instead of having to fly up and over.

Clipping wings may or may not solve the problem depending on the nature of the bird.

 

[sherl0ck]

Great thoughts everyone, this helps. Prolly need more then just a fence to keep them home.