Hardware cloth

[vintage]

I purchased 1/4 inch hardware cloth for my coop, planning on 1/2 inch for the run. Has anyone had issues with it and predators? I used it on my coop door, plan on it for soffits, nothing at ground level. I might be able to double it, if people have had predators tear through.

 

[KingD]

I purchased 1/4 inch hardware cloth for my coop, planning on 1/2 inch for the run. Has anyone had issues with it and predators? I used it on my coop door, plan on it for soffits, nothing at ground level. I might be able to double it, if people have had predators tear through.

I've had a predator tear some. Got 12 guinea keets all in one night!
Either badger or fox I'm guessing.
More often than not, its safe for them.

 

[Mamatomany123]

I purchased 1/4 inch hardware cloth for my coop, planning on 1/2 inch for the run. Has anyone had issues with it and predators? I used it on my coop door, plan on it for soffits, nothing at ground level. I might be able to double it, if people have had predators tear through.

Most times it should be ok but every once in a while you will hear about something getting through. I think main concern would be bigger predators such as bears, mountain lions, ect. A good rule I live by is making sure the run and coop are secure. If something happens to get into the run then I want them to have to work hard again to get into the coop.

 

[THEChIcKeNwhisperer354]

Just don't use this. My dog tore right through it not to eat the chickens. To eat the bisucts the chickens were eating.

 

[vintage]

The rest will be on soffits and within the run.

 

[THEChIcKeNwhisperer354]

He had to have them homemade biscuits!

 

[vintage]

Most times it should be ok but every once in a while you will hear about something getting through. I think main concern would be bigger predators such as bears, mountain lions, ect. A good rule I live by is making sure the run and coop are secure. If something happens to get into the run then I want them to have to work hard again to get into the coop.

We don't have bears or mountain lions, but a minimal chance at a coyote. I'm super concerned about racoons, possums, foxes, ect. I did add a lip on the inside of the door so that a piece of plywood can be placed in there.

 

[mowin]

My coop and run has withstood a few coons, fox and coyotes attempts at breaking in. I've got a HC apron that extends out 24" along the ground. It's served me well. I do believe the way its installed and fastened to the structure makes all the difference.

 

[Aunt Tat]

I've been toying with that idea too. How did you install it?

 

[mowin]

Key is to make sure the corners or edges are covered. I used screws with fender washers first, then covered the edges with 1x2's fastened with longer screws. My run is a hoop run, and I used metal zip ties and wire to fasten it to the cattle panels.
Simply using staples isn't good enough. A coon will pull them out.