predator-proof fence idea for spring construction.

[patandchickens]

Quote:
Except that it'd need to be real deep, i.e. real difficult to build and *expensive*, because dogs and foxes can easily dig considerably deeper than 1' deep.

Sorry

,

Pat

 

[CityChook]

If your run is low enough for your chickens to jump out of it, isn't it also low enough for dogs/racoons/foxes to jump *in*??? The bushes, if sizable, might deter the weaker/smaller of the pack, and the roots might deter some digging - or at least slow them down - but anything of size could probably clear that fence pretty easily. I'm talking of the two legged variety as well... Just wonder'n...

 

[KattyKillFish]

okay guys, we don't have raccons in this part of alaska, and a coyote here wouldn't be caught dead within 20 miles of humans. the willow shrubs roots are very thick. we have red foxes and acrctic foxes, but the acrtic foxes are also very shy like the coyotes and are rarely seen. i am also going to be laying chicken wire on the ground around the fencing where i will be putting the branches. the run is only low enough for the chickens to jump over if i bury a 3rd of it underground

also, even if something did try digging the roots would slow them down alot, there is always someone home and i am always up ridiculously late. i shoot dogs on sight, even if they are just standing there in my yard. i don't have much of a dog problem since i started doing that last summer. it's only the foxes I'm worrying about.

 

[Klorinth]

Go for it!

I think the idea is worth a try. Others have talked about using roses and such as well. The only problem you might have with the willows is spreading.

I will eventually try some similar, so I would love to hear how it goes for you.

Have fun!

 

[KattyKillFish]

the shrub-willow we have here doesn't spread very rapidly, it's a very slow-growing bush. i don't know the exact type as we have over 10 kinds of willow this far north. i also though of using birch but they have a tendency to get huge fast and the might do some damage to the fence. spruce may also work but they grow very very slowly. i'm gonna go ahead and give it a try as soon as the snow melts and the perma-frost thaws. thank you all for your ideas and warnings!