Hmm... might not be high enough. Chickens can easily fly over 4' and can totally decimate vegetation in a matter of a few hours.3.5’ chicken wired plot-
What will you do with the eggs? I assume these birds are still laying....tho they may lay out in range area.PETS. We will not be using their eggs. They are “accidentals” from a friend, and my plan is to have only rescues from here forward.
This is where Romance meets Reality. Sure, they're all happy ranging(can they range into neighbors who may not appreciate chickens-or a roadway where they could be run over???) but sooner or later predators will find them. The risk of consequence is up to you.The run is 12’x8’...I feel like it’s more fair to them to live naturally and risk preparation than to keep them from exploring as my true goal is to offer them quality of life; but I am conflicted for sure and this is my husbands concern too...predators. They are coming from being free range with pastures to roam in all day.
Make sure your tarp, or rather the framing under it, can hold up the snow load.I am in central Michigan, winters can be harsh. I will tarp the top and one side of the run and not free range them in storms or super cold. The coop is top notch and I will hang treats in it and sit in the coop a little each day to check on everyone.
Will run have a mesh roof to protect from predators?
How big is coop?
Dimensions and pics are always helpful.