New to chickens

[SlaterFarm]

We got eight Cream Legbars in Feb 2025 at 3-days old. We love them, and as I am retired they are a big part of my sanity. I researched a lot and then built a decent coop and run, and the ladies seem happy in there. Six boxes for eight birds and I use one for in-coop food and water. We're rural and occasionally hear coyotes, and there are other creatures around. We let the girls out for about 90 to 120 minutes most evenings before sunset, and they file back in by themselves before dark. I sit out with them most evenings, weather permitting. The coop is definitely coyote-proof and they are locked and latched in there after dark. The run is built well with 2x4 and 2x2, with half-inch hardware cloth stapled on, but I wouldn't trust the dogs to stay out of there. Too much at stake! I'll try to post a couple of pics. Glad to be here!

 

[N F C]

Hi, it's nice to have you here with us!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

 

[CCsGarden]

Welcome to BYC!

 

[Jenbirdee]

 

[sourland]

Hello, and welcome to BYC. Hotwire around the coop and run would provide another layer of protection.

 

[BoundlessLove]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens!

 

[muddy75]

 

[Debbie292d]

Hiya, and welcome to BYC!

That's a nice coop and run you built!

If you're worried about the coyotes or other varmints pouncing on the run and popping out the staples, you could hotwire it like @sourland suggested. Otherwise, you could secure it at several points in the middle with large washers and screws.

We're glad you're here!

 

[GodLovesU]