My first chicken run! Help!

[Erinschooks]

Hi

I have a question about chicken runs.
I have built an Avery coop (pictured) and have paved the bottom and will put concrete around to secure them. Is that going to be ok to keep out rats?
Also, for a run, do I need to lay wire on the floor as well as the sides? I was going to just put wire along the side along the pavers then across to the fence?
I’m completely new to chickens and would so much appreciate your help!

 

[chanceosunshine]

We added a skirt made of fencing around our run and around our chicken tractor. We buried the skirt that's around the run but the skirt around the tractor isn't, obviously. We've seen evidence at both sites that something tried to dig under but were deterred by the skirting.
I would think that pavers would keep anything from digging under as well. Just make sure that you use wire fencing that is heavy gauged with small holes to keep out both strong and small predators/pests, for both the run and skirting if you choose to add one. I personally wouldn't fence the bottom of the run if the outside is secure.

 

[ValerieJ]

Hi! Welcome to BYC! I agree with the above post. A skirt will work. Also, the run should be 10 SF per chicken. Good luck!

 

[aart]

an Avery coop

What is an "Avery Coop"?
A kit you bought?
What is that 'box' in there?

Here's some.....
Good examples of anti-dig apron installation.
If rodents are prolific, burying the apron ~12" would be good.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/wire-around-coop.1110498/#post-17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208


Oh, and...Welcome to BYC! @Erinschooks
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, (laptop version shown), then it's always there!