Locks/Latches (Predator prevention)

[yellowletters]

Here are photos of the locks for our nesting box access (top) and our coop door (bottom). For now you can see that my husband put a padlock on the coop door (this is to keep the children out of the coop - they were hanging on the roosts! - until we get the chickens). I know raccoons can be very smart and learn to open lots of things.

What would you recommend we do to help predator-proof these locks/latches? I don't really want to have a padlock on the door full time as I want to be able to get into the coop quickly if need be. What else can you recommend? Thanks! - Callie

 

[Chemguy]

I've had great success with the latch type below. The sheath on the shaft pushes up against the hook with a spring. When the hook is placed through the eye bolt, it is held in place. Won't keep kids out, though

I do have lots of raccoons, but am unsure if they've tested the system. It has worked for a few years so far.

 

[TalkALittle]

I have the second latch you showed. Instead of a padlock I use a carabiner.

 

[Folly's place]

Welcome! Your top latch is too easy. I use snaps similar to Chemguy's. Racoons are smart! Mary

 

[PapaChaz]

I have the second latch you showed. Instead of a padlock I use a carabiner.

^^ this ^^ don't have to look for a key if you use a carabiner, or you could use a combination lock if you HAVE to lock it

 

[sierranomad]

I also use the second latch you showed. Instead of a padlock, I "lock" it with an elongated "O" shaped thing that needs to be unscrewed.

 

[bdjh]

We don't have raccoons, (coyotes and skunks would be my main concerns) but I use the same latch as Chemguy on our run door. I use the same small sliding latch you show on our small 'chicken door', as well as the main door on the coop. On the nesting boxes, I use the traditional padlock-type latch with a carabiner instead of a padlock.

 

[Hokum Coco]

I don't really want to have a padlock on the door full time as I want to be able to get into the coop quickly if need be. What else can you recommend? Thanks! - Callie



When it come to Raccoons I would rather be safe than sorry. I went through that experience once go with the padlock. They figured out my system in 4 years.
Ask me what system I have now !!!

 

[Hokum Coco]

d

 

[sierranomad]

276 × Yes I like that idea !!! Thank you for sharing Sierranomad.

You are welcome.Glad you found a picture of it.