How to "predetor proof" external nest box

[IDchicks]

We are just getting started with our backyard chicken adventure ... we have 4 chicks that are 3 weeks old and we got their coop all set up and in place over the weekend. To predator proof we have used saftely gate hook and eye latches and have dug around the coop and run about a foot and placed/buried 1/2" hardware cloth to keep out the diggers ... the next box lids are pretty heavy but for a piece of mind I would like to lock those down too - so those sneaky, clever predetors can't get in. The next box lids overlap the nest box base and I haven't found a locking device that fits well... I'll admit, I just started my search, thought I would see if anyone had any ideas. Picture of the coop below

 

[lindseyawest]

What about something like this with a caribeaner through the loop: http://www.lowes.com/pd_445623-48446-5381803___?productId=50383150&pl=1&Ntt=gate+latch

Then you don't have to worry about remembering a combo or carrying a key.

By the way, there are much cheaper versions of the latch, this was just the first one I found.

 

[curious chickee]

I use a caribeaner through our latch.

 

[Chickenshoe]

same here, use Carabeaners thru everything

 

[IDchicks]

Thanks for the suggestions - I'll pick one up!