Is this suitable ( for now ) * pic *

[XL506]

Hey guys
I was just wondering if what Im using right now is ok, untill I get around to building a coop this weekend. It is a 10ft long x 8ft wide x 4ft high Chain length kennel. Its got a nightstand that I gutted with a top and bottom area for them to hide/nest and also a 20gallon tub that Ive got on its side for the same purpose. Ive only got 4 hens right now. And dont plan on getting more untill i get the coop / run built. In the hide/nest areas Ive got it layered with long dry prairie grass from the field. They seem to be happy...heres a pic, sorry about the quality I had to use my cell phone as my sister came and borrowed my camera.

* Note I have Chainlength over the top to keep out Racoons, etc. And a canopy over half of the top and the back to provide a shaded area for them *

So what do you think? Also, when I build the coop I think Im going to attach this kennel to the coop and use the kennel as a space to run around. ( I dont plan on keeping more than 6-8 hens at a time ).. so would this be ok. * sorry this is so long lol *

 

[JennsPeeps]

It looks OK for the short run but would not provide adequate predator protection. Raccoons will reach through the chainlink and injure/kill/eat chickens. The birds are too dumb not to let themselves get eaten on handful at a time through the fence.

Good luck on the coop this weekend!

 

[Chirpy]

Although it actually looks good, as JennsPeeps said it's really not predator proof. Raccoons and cats can reach right through the chain link and grab a chicken or the chicken will stick its head out and get nabbed. You could add either hardware cloth (the best choice) or 1" chicken wire around the bottom two feet though and that should prevent those issues.

The other concern with chain link is that some dogs can rip it up/open with no problems (I had one of those dogs - went through our chain link fencing like it wasn't there - had holes in it every few feet).

If you have a way to lock them securely in something at night it would certainly be wise to do so.

Good luck and hope everybody stays safe.

 

[roosters97]

looks nice too me!

 

[XL506]

I dont have to worry about dogs, My yard is fenced in and dogs never come around. I've got 2 dogs, but they love the chickens. ( Though the chickens dont know how to react ). When my dogs see the chickens they lay on there back belly up and start doing bicycle kicks lol. Ive never seen a racoon or anything here. But will take the risk into consideration when building the coop

 

[WestKnollAmy]

I wish I had something like that to work with instead of having to start from scratch each time.
As others have stated though, the biggest worry is predators. If you had a large dog crate to set in the middle of the run at night and lock them in and nothing dug under the fence you might be okay but some chickens also can just die from being frightened of an animal trying to get to them.
The more secure, the better!
Good luck!

 

[Acre of Blessings]

THAT IS VERY NICE

 

[JennsPeeps]

Quote:
This is great advice!

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Looks good.

But if the chickens lay near the fence, the raccoons will reach right through and rip them apart. I have had that happen with ducks and chickens.