hardware cloth for mobile coop apron?

[feedepoulet]

Is an 18" apron of hardware wire a good option around a mobile coop for keeping raccoons and possums out? I've thought of attaching a sheet of this to the entire bottom, but, want the birds to be able to forage. Would attaching a sheet of welded livestock wire plus a hardware cloth apron be even better?

Thank you.

 

[chickluvinfreak]

An apron would work to keep digging predators out. I think the problem with raccoons is they pry things apart and can open locks. I'm not sure if they dig into enclosures, do they? I would have a secure padlock that they couldn't open and strong wire that can't be pried apart all around the coop. They can tear apart chicken wire but hardware cloth is very strong so it shouldn't be a problem. Also make sure their aren't holes small enough for them to reach into the coop. I've heard stories if them grabbing and eating chickens through the fence without even going into the coop. I'm glad their arent raccoons where I live. Good luck with your coop and chickens.

 

[TerryH]

How do you plan to attach the apron to the ground? You would definitely need to do something to keep the diggers from just goin under the wire. Seems to me that making it stiffer with welded wire or perhaps even just using welded wire vs the hardware cloth would make that process simpler.

 

[feedepoulet]

I'd thought of wiring it to the bottom frame of the mobile coop. Or, use screws and washers to attach it on the bottom framework. I have seen photos of tractors parked
on top of a sheet of welded wire, also. I'd like an A frame one with wheels and lots of ventilation...our heat index was 107 yesterday. Just finding one to buy that isn't toy-quality is a challenge!

 

[gastonanne]

That should work

 

[feedepoulet]

It should work. If I don't have a heat stroke doing it.