Hello to all

[jessecakephart]

My name is Jesseca and I am new to the site. I really enjoy my chickens and I am fairly new to raising them. Sadly, about a week ago a raccoon got into our coop and eliminated my whole flock. It was devastating to all of us (my husband and 4 children included). We hadn't had any predator issue in over 2 years so I probably got lazy when it came to checking for holes in the fence, etc. I really want to learn as much as I can so I can do everything possible to help prevent that from happening again. My heart just broke when I saw it and I felt just awful that I allowed something so traumatic and fatal to happen to my girls. I welcome any helpful advice.
Thanks!

 

[rjohns39]

Hi Jesseca and welcome to BYC I'm so sorry for your loss Half inch welded wire on the coop and run in addition to an apron around the whole thing to prevent digging and 3-4 hot wires around the whole thing as well are all good ways to keep them out. And everyone likes chicken. We wish it were under better circumstanced—but we're still thrilled that you've decided to join us

 

[ronott1]

rjohns39 has given you great tips!

Go here for coop ideas!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/category/chicken-coops.12/

 

[Dayrel]

Welcome Jesseca. Raccoons are my biggest concern too. rjohns39 gave you some good info. Make sure the 1/2" hardware cloth is well anchored- use some nails/screws in addition to staples. I'd consider the electric wiring optional, but if you are running some type of electricity to your coop, then a good idea. You might want that electricity anyway so that you can keep their water thawed during the winter.

Good luck. There is a lot of good info here, so just explore around and ask questions. People here are very friendly and willing to help.

 

[Jetblack2004]

I'm sorry to hear about your girls . It's so awful when predators get into the coop

-Jet

 

[drumstick diva]

So sorry for your loss, sadly "everything," loves chicken, and not in a good way.

 

[sourland]

Hi, Jesseca, and welcome to BYC. Sorry for your loss.

 

[Kiki]

Welcome to Backyardchickens.com aka BYC!
We are glad you joined our flock.
Jump right in and make yourself at home.


This video will help you learn how to navigate this site:

http://articles.extension.org/pages/69065/feeding-chickens-for-egg-production

 

[jessecakephart]

Thank you all for your warm welcome. My husband and I are definitely looking at how to secure the run and coop, so your information is greatly appreciated.

 

[Teila]

Hey Jesseca, I have a bit of a greet template that I mix up a little bit depending on who has joined us and why.

After reading your post, no standard greet just x 1,000’s

I am so sorry to hear of your loss and hope that fond memories bring some comfort.

I also wish you all the best with your new flock when they arrive.