We are planning to get chicken's in the next few weeks, and are trying to figure out the best design for the run/yard and coop to keep out predictors (and our family dog).
I have an area about 100ft X 100ft that is presently fenced in with three strands of electric fence. I was thinking of adding two more strands at the bottom to keep out the dog, and hopefully any fox. This was suggested by a friend who also has chickens. Do you think that will work when they are roaming around during the day?
As far as the coop goes, I am starting with a blank slate, and would like to go the least expensive way possible. Hoping to start with 10-15 chickens about 4-5 months old (not ready to start raising from chicks just yet). How large of a coop will we need, should we get one already made, use one of those sheds, or start from the ground up. What's the best way to set up the inside? how large of an area outside should we screen in for when I am not around and do have to close the hens in, or at night?
Is there anything that can deter hawks, eagles (we have 4 residents about 300 feet from our barn, and where the chickens will be), fox and raccoon.
I have been sorting through other threads,and am getting good ideas, but wanting to get some ideas all in one place.
Thanks for your help. I love this forum!
I have an area about 100ft X 100ft that is presently fenced in with three strands of electric fence. I was thinking of adding two more strands at the bottom to keep out the dog, and hopefully any fox. This was suggested by a friend who also has chickens. Do you think that will work when they are roaming around during the day?
As far as the coop goes, I am starting with a blank slate, and would like to go the least expensive way possible. Hoping to start with 10-15 chickens about 4-5 months old (not ready to start raising from chicks just yet). How large of a coop will we need, should we get one already made, use one of those sheds, or start from the ground up. What's the best way to set up the inside? how large of an area outside should we screen in for when I am not around and do have to close the hens in, or at night?
Is there anything that can deter hawks, eagles (we have 4 residents about 300 feet from our barn, and where the chickens will be), fox and raccoon.
I have been sorting through other threads,and am getting good ideas, but wanting to get some ideas all in one place.
Thanks for your help. I love this forum!