Need advice for a predator proof run

[Nat and Ana]

Hi guys! I'm new here. A new chicken mama too. I have 4, 2 week olds in the brooder (2 ee's, a Wyandotte and an Austrolorp).

So we bought a coop (pictured here). I still need to stain it. But I need help and advice with the run. We have hawks, coyote, bobcat, bear and everything else, weasels, raccoons etc.

I have no building skills or tools. So I'm thinking pvc and I'll buy a pipe cutter? I'm also thinking I'll need to create a trench with 8"-12" of 1/2" hardware cloth. Any ideas on how to make this easy but predator proof would be great. Oh, I'm in MA so it's usually a hard (and cold) 9 mo winter.

Also how the heck do I open the pop door once I attach a run?
Thanks Everyone!!

 

[redranger209]

An electrified fence works great. Line it with chicken wire, and under it put concrete so they can’t dig under. A run cover of hardware cloth will take care of raptors. If a bear comes, your screwed. There’s almost no way to keep a bear out unless your chicken coop is metal or concrete.

 

[Christian Pedersen]

You can cut PVC with any saw you would use to cut wood. Depending on the size PVC may flex too much. Pressure treated lumber would be better, though not cheap.

 

[lazy gardener]

PVC will not hold up well to winter weather. I'm a 62 y.o. biddy. In the last 6 years, I've built a 2 level cattle panel coop, a cattle panel green house, 2 tractors. If I can build stuff, it's easily within the abilities of any one who is not physically handicapped. Building a chicken run is the perfect place to start learning how to build. Most likely, you can build a nice run with minimal cuts. Secure your vertical posts with concrete, attach your horizontal framing to those posts, then attach your fencing. I suggest that you use 6' tall fencing so you can easily enter the run, and use deep litter management. Make the run door wide enough so you can push a standard sized wheel barrow through the door. You can buy a skill saw or chop saw at Harbor Freight, and will have it available for your future building projects.

 

[Chickie pants]

I have my run 99% Predator proof. I was wondering how effective a radio and a night light is in keeping predators out.

 

[lazy gardener]

The radio and night light will provide a nice ambiance of mood lighting and soft music while the predators dine on your flock. You could also add a nice vase of flowers and some table linnens to finish the dining experience.

 

[Chickie pants]

Well just for your info,Its Sports Talk Radio. Like I said 99% , I just thought the radio might a %

 

[Alaskan]

I would build a proper fence, with roof, especially if you get much snow.

 

[Nat and Ana]

An electrified fence works great. Line it with chicken wire, and under it put concrete so they can’t dig under. A run cover of hardware cloth will take care of raptors. If a bear comes, your screwed. There’s almost no way to keep a bear out unless your chicken coop is metal or concrete.

I have little kids, so i have to say no to an electrified fence. As for the bear, I plan on bringing the feed in each night. At least I can work on prevention that way.

 

[Nat and Ana]

PVC will not hold up well to winter weather. I'm a 62 y.o. biddy. In the last 6 years, I've built a 2 level cattle panel coop, a cattle panel green house, 2 tractors. If I can build stuff, it's easily within the abilities of any one who is not physically handicapped. Building a chicken run is the perfect place to start learning how to build. Most likely, you can build a nice run with minimal cuts. Secure your vertical posts with concrete, attach your horizontal framing to those posts, then attach your fencing. I suggest that you use 6' tall fencing so you can easily enter the run, and use deep litter management. Make the run door wide enough so you can push a standard sized wheel barrow through the door. You can buy a skill saw or chop saw at Harbor Freight, and will have it available for your future building projects.

I had to google what cattle panel was. But that looks very helpful. I can't imagine securing it with zip ties though. ha! I have no idea how to use a wood saw. I had shop class once but that was just a jig saw... the teacher used the band saw. By the time I figure it all out my hens will be laying.
hmmm. I'm now thinking I'll have to enlist my dad to visit me and see if he could put something together. Or at least point me in the right direction of power tool purchases. But he's not visiting for a few months and my chicks need a safe place to roam.

So I'm back to the question: How to create a fast, easy, and secure run for my chickens?