From free range to run

[madmantrapper]

I had to put in a run for my chickens, neighbor complains about them running loose. Any way the run is 4 feet tall and all the chickens fly over it like it wasn't there. It is 600 sq ft for 10 birds, I figured at that size they would stay in. I guess they free ranged so long that freedom is important.

 

[annek]

as you figured out, they can easily fly over 4'. I had to put bird netting over mine to keep them in and then ended up free ranging them anyway, but in case I have to keep them in, I still have their run. Bird netting is really cheap and it will keep them in but you have to keep it tight or it will sag. I don't know how wide your run is but you can put in a support of some sort across the middle to keep it up. Even a tight rope would do the trick. Bad thing is you will have to crouch to walk under it where it hits the fence.

 

[tmb3fan]

I tried to fence my chickens in too after months of free ranging. It didn't work either without a top. Mine also found ways to get under the fence too. Once they get a taste of freedom, they hate to be contained. Mine go in chick tractors with runs at night, but by mid morning, they are eager to get out.

 

[cmom]

I put a line around the top of my post and so far none of my birds have tried to fly over it. Maybe you need to clip their wings.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/LC-wingclipping.html

 

[madmantrapper]

I thought about clipping the wings but somehow that just don't seem right to me. Where do I get bird netting? Is it cord or wire?

Thanks for the replies.

 

[WestKnollAmy]

I trimmed my bird's wings. It just made them try harder. They still went where they wanted to and I am experienced in wing clipping for house birds so the chickens were nothing new. They just are made differently.
However, you could always put weights on their legs!

 

[MIKE555444]

It should be noted if you decide to clip the wings it should only be done on one side. Then they will loose balance when trying to fly.

 

[Hangin Wit My Peeps]

Aww that's just wrong to go from Free range to run. Your neighbors are cruel and mean! Tell them I said that! Maybe you should tell them the benefits of having them free range. Like FREE fertilizer that REALLY helps their garden and yard