Hardware cloth on bottom of run…?

[Tracyree]

I made a 4x8 run for my 6 week old chicks while we wait for the big run to get finished. I was going to pin mesh around the outside and stake it to the ground, but have seen others put hardware cloth on the bottom of the actual run. I am hesitant to do that as it seems like it would hurt their feel and just seems uncomfortable. Am I missing something?

 

[wrathsfarm]

I made a 4x8 run for my 6 week old chicks while we wait for the big run to get finished. I was going to pin mesh around the outside and stake it to the ground, but have seen others put hardware cloth on the bottom of the actual run. I am hesitant to do that as it seems like it would hurt their feel and just seems uncomfortable. Am I missing something?

I wouldn't do it myself. They love to scratch and if bedding or dirt is not deep enough you get hurt feet. I just skirt/apron it to keep out the diggers.

 

[GlicksChicks]

I have fence secured to the ground outside of the run along the perimeter. I personally used dog fencing as that ground protection because it is strong, durable, and the chickens aren't coming in contact with it so they can't get hurt by it. That is what I would suggest.

 

[Tracyree]

Thanks!!

 

[FlippinFancyFeathers]

I made a 4x8 run for my 6 week old chicks while we wait for the big run to get finished. I was going to pin mesh around the outside and stake it to the ground, but have seen others put hardware cloth on the bottom of the actual run. I am hesitant to do that as it seems like it would hurt their feel and just seems uncomfortable. Am I missing something?

According to my research, you dig down to 6". Then, place the hardware cloth on the base. How to attach it to the sides? My guess is using strong pliers bend the edge of the hardware mesh 1st at the 7" mark so you attach it to the hardware cloth wall (if that's what you've got) with say, plastic zip ties... or just cut a piece to fill the gap if you didn't drop the wall section deep enough into the ground. Hardware cloth is easy to cut if you have a grinder and protective gear. Sparks will fly so do be careful. I find wire cutting pliers just hurt my hand shortly after use. But those will work too. Just make sure you get a good pair. Good luck!

 

[jreardon1918]

I don't think hardware cloth or any fencing is needed under the run. My hens dig pretty deep holes 6-9". I recommend a good apron of HW cloth outside the coop. If the apron is 6" or more deep, you can be pretty safe in assuming the chickens will stay in and the predators will stay out.

As always, YMMV.