Newbie with a silly question

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jstp said:
Next silly question. I have about 1/2 ac fenced in. Trying to find the best place for my coop. Only have one small area near shade but would be near fence. Should I worry more about predators if I place the coop close to the fence. They will have an enclosed run. Thanks for helping!
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If the fence line has a lot of plant/brush growth by it that would increase the chance of predators. If the fence line is clear then I doubt it would make much difference. Predators like feeling safe as prey do. Also vegetation allows for stealth. A shaded coop is better than being in full sun all the time. I'd clean out the fence line as needed. I don't think your question was silly at all. Many problems could be avoided if people would think before doing. A great day to you.
 
Thanks for the reply. Fence is about 6-10 ft from the bushes. Think that's adequate?
 
jstp said:
Thanks for the reply. Fence is about 6-10 ft from the bushes. Think that's adequate?
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The problem I've seen in the past is that predators and vermin will use any cover available to get close to what they want; in this case your chickens, etc. Ask yourself if the brush will provide cover for rats, skunks, racoon, to get close to the place where you're planning to build a coop. A distance of six to ten feet still allows these animals to get close enough for a quick run to the seclusion the coop would provide. The predators I have had the most problem with in the past are skunks, opossums, and rats. Each one will take advantage of any cover available. Even with the area cleared of vegetation the pests will still likely try for an easy snack. Clearing the area just make it more difficult. Most predators are prey too. Rats-a good meal for most wild animals. Skunks-great horn owls like to eat them and a cleared area makes it more possible. And the same is true for other critters. Most of these problem animals will, at least, hesitate before crossing a cleared area and the bigger the better.
 
Here's a few ideas that can help solve the problem of unwanted pests/predators. Have a solid floor on your coop. Mine is cement. A raised floor with space under it encourages all kinds of pests. It doesn't take long before holes are being chewed up through the floor. Be careful that there are no gaps or holes in the walls; no matter how small. When you build the run bury the wire down far enough to stop animals digging holes under it. Use wire screening that is strong enough. And again, make sure there are no small gaps or holes that would allow easy access. Rats can get through very small openings. There are many coop and run designs available-pick one that is right for your area and needs.
 

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