Need Run Advice

[chickenmadness7]

So, we have decided to build a run within our already fenced yard for the guineas and chickens, at least to give them a more predator proof space while they grow up. We have a very nice, preadator proof coop. We're considering an electric fence. Will we need to cover the top with netting too? In all of the electric fence photos I see on google, I see no roof.

 

[Folly's place]

I have a run that is covered, because it will keep hawks out. The flock is out free ranging as much as possible, though. Electric poultry netting works great for ground predators, but not for hawks. Mary

 

[chickenmadness7]

When you say yours are out free ranging as much as possible, do you mean they ate outside of the fence? This is where I get confused. How do you protect free ranging chickens?

 

[Folly's place]

Yes, mine are outside of the run; they have some protection from many spruces and some shrubs, and some 2"x4" horse fencing, and fairly distant neighbors. I'm on a small farm, (50acres) not suburbia. Sometimes young birds are eaten by hawks; if it happens, everyone is locked in the run for a few weeks. I had a very bad day 18 months ago, a daytime fox attack. He was killed the following week, a very sick individual, poor guy. Bad things can happen out here, but generally the birds are happy and healthier, IMO. I don't have Silkies or frizzles, because of their vulnerability. Mary

 

[Folly's place]

You have to asses your environment; there's a learning curve, and it will depend on your neighborhood. I trap and shoot predators. Mary