New person: Coop construction thread

[Sue Gremlin]

what do you guys think of using heavier gauge welded wire three feet up and then just chicken wire to the ceiling?

 

[maryhysong]

I don't have raccoons but will repeat that chicken wire keeps nothing out. It only keeps chickens in. My worst predator are loose dogs, my current brooder coop is covered with concrete reinforcing wire 6x6 inch mesh to keep dogs from getting in, with chicken wire over that to keep the chickens in. You might think about electric fencing, several strands around the outside at strategic locations will deter most predators.

 

[Melabella]

I used 1x1 welded wire in my chicken run... cost a fortune, but I sleep sure at night. Someone just informed me that weasels can get through 1x1. though so I replaced the coop windows with 1/2". Your coop looks very pretty,,, good luck, and please keep us posted!

 

[Sue Gremlin]

My husband built the roosting boards today, and with that, we are finally ready to get our hens. Now it's just a matter of logistics with getting them here. SO happy to finally be ready for them!

 

[Melabella]

My husband built the roosting boards today, and with that, we are finally ready to get our hens. Now it's just a matter of logistics with getting them here. SO happy to finally be ready for them!

what are you going to get. Figuring that out is SO much fun. I picked 5 different breeds. One of the 10 of them turned out to be a rooster! I let him stay, so far, so good. Got my first egg a week ago! Waiting for the other 8 girls to start!

Let us know!
MB

 

[Ashburnham]

As an alternative to weldwesh at ground level, I often
use sheets of second hand corrogated tin.
May not look so wonderful, but keeps all our predators out!
(Of course we dont have to worry about coyotes, bears, velociraptors and bigfoots like you folk do- lol)

 

[Melabella]

As an alternative to weldwesh at ground level, I often
use sheets of second hand corrogated tin.
May not look so wonderful, but keeps all our predators out!
(Of course we dont have to worry about coyotes, bears, velociraptors and bigfoots like you folk do- lol)

But you do have those dingos no?

Dingo stole my chicken!

 

[Ashburnham]

Oh yes - we have dingoes - but none closer than the edge of the State park
about 3 km away. And my little "dingo' Kelpie keeps them away.

 

[Ashburnham]

Here's one I saw earlier-

 

[Hokum Coco]

I think most chicken owners would agree that they are expensive eggs. However you are going to have the best manure know to man for your garden; weed and insect control; a pet that will help you make breakfast; and an assortment of personalities who will warm your heart; and if you are so inclined something that taste good with dumplings; as a side benefit.

Good luck with your new venture Sue Gremlin