Hardware wire

[jackson41]

What gauge of hardware cloth is strong enough to stop coyotes and fox? Is 1 inch x 1 inch welded wire more predator proof? Thanks for your help.

 

[deniker]

I think I would go 1/2 X 1/2 Cloth, as far as stopping coyotes and fox if they want in they will, but this will be stronger. plus it help on the mice control.

Good Luck.

 

[elmo]

Gauge is the thickness of the wire. The wire spacing is a different issue.

I use 19 gauge vinyl coated galvanized after weld wire, 1/2" by 1/2" wire spacing. But we don't have coyotes or fox in our fenced suburban back yard...at least I hope not!

I've read about some people using a lower gauge (that means it's thicker) wire for more strength: say, 16 or 14 gauge. But it's a lot more expensive to get 1/2" by 1/2" wire in these gauges. If you use wire with greater spacing, you've got to consider the possibility that predators like raccoons could reach through the wire, grab your bird and pull pieces of it through the wire. I've read about this happening even with wire spacing of 1/2" by 1".

You could use a lower gauge wire with greater wire spacing for your run, then reinforce the lower two or three feet (and anywhere perches come up close to the wire) with higher gauge but 1/2" by 1/2" inch spaced wire. That way you get the best of both approaches.

 

[crazyhen]

The only problem with the wider spaced wire of 1"or better is that birds can get through it to your feed also mice. This could bring disease to your flock. Use the 1/2 inch hardware cloth then if you have dogs or cyotes, foxes etc. put a heavy welded wire 1/2 the way up of 1" or more. Gloria Jean

 

[jackson41]

Thanks for the info. I found 16 gauge 1/2 x 1/2 in wire at our farm supply store today. Hopefully that will be secure enough. Again thank you for all the help for us new chick owners.

 

[bigstack]

If there is a deffinate worry of coyotes. I suggest electric fencing!!! Also we used to raise rabbits. Their toes stuck through the wire mesh 1/2x1/2 The coyotes and dogs would actually pull the toes off of the rabbits!!! They only stuck through a tiny bit. But I guess any amount will work as long as they can get a hold! Be careful! If using it as siding.... If they want in bad enough they will get in!

Good Luck and God Bless!

 

[Kittymomma]

Quote:
Yep, electric is your friend! Works on everything from the neighbors pooch (or your own) to raccoons, coyotes, and bobcat. Just make sure you install it properly and have a good ground.