We completed the run this past weekend and I want to get opinions. The coop is 6x4 with 1/4" HWC over all windows, under the coop and vents. Doors and windows have double latches. The run is 12x18x6 chain link dog kennel and is covered 3' up with 1/4" HWC along with a 1 foot apron buried. We did not cover the entire wall because we ran out of money, material, time and steam. We are also laying sod over the apron so that the roots will grow through it. The top is 100% covered with 1/4" HWC. They have been out for 2 weeks and not so much as a dig mark. I know we have coons, possum, coyote, and hawk. Neighbor said they saw a fox once but I have never seen one. So - what do you all think?
I'd be a little worried about some of the chain link not being covered with hwc. I understand funding issues but you went that far, might as well finish it all. Make sure all those trees around it are sound. A large branch could do some damage to that pvc if I'm seeing it right. Otherwise, what a great space for your 6 hens to enjoy, and for you to enjoy as well. Nice job.
Looks good! The hardware cloth works by keeping a raccoon from pulling a sleeping chicken thru the wire enough to kill it.
I like your set-up and feel your girls are pretty safe. Of course there's no gaurantees, but I think you've done fine, without setting up a minefield for predators. If you check out my BYC page, you'll note that I've done essentially the same thing. I've got to add more pics, but I think you've made yours even more secure than I did since I didn't bury a foot of fencing. You can only do so much...I think you've done great!
Looks great. I would put something for them to jump on or hide under for shade in the middle of the coop. Do they sleep inside?
I think that the 3' high hwc is good. Do I see a large gap between the gate at the closure? That is definitely an area of concern. When I first put my pen together we didn't use hwc, just 1x1 and predators literally reached in and pulled the hen with their paws/claws.... so we put it on to about 3 feet and no problems. I would definitely do something about the area around the gate though. Other than that, you sure look to be secure. Hope so. Good luck
I think it looks pretty nice. I would take a look at the gap by the door and see what preventative measure you can take there. Good work.
Quote:Yes they sleep inside locked up every night. The auto door shuts at 8:30. The entire run is shaded from the trees, i was worried they would not get enough sun. They only get a sprinkle of sun in the morning, no afternoon sun at all. Also, the coop is up on legs 18" high and they go under there (its also enclosed in wire all the way around). I am still trying to come up with some "toys" for them to jump on. about the gap in the gate, not sure at all what to do about that other than try to cover the entire gate and see if it will still open. The gap is covered 3' up
It's awesome!!!! I only wish I would've seen these pics before I built mine. Whatever can fit thru the h/w wire the chickens will probably kill and eat. The only predators that will give you any problems will be of the microscopic variety or maybe lice/mites, unless of course you forget to close the door Great Job!!!
In my experience, those black zip ties weather quickly and break within a year or two. Something to keep your eye on I'd suggest. I had something rip into my run by bending the thick wire and clasps of the chain link (the parts that connect the fencing to the poles). Depending on your predators, they may be able to fairly easily pull from the top of the hardware cloth and pull that off, then in through the chain link. Given what I saw done to the metal of my chain link, the zip ties would be like butter to get through. If your chooks are locked up in a secure coop at night, and they are supervised during the day, they will most likely by fine with your run. Ours are only in their run when someone is home. That way, if something were to attack, the chooks could alert us. After our attack and seeing what was done to our fence, I realize now that nothing is 100% predator-proof; I strive to do my best to slow predators down as much as I can. Good job on your run; just keep vigilant.
