Predator proof nest box?

[Peepinainteasy]

I’m building a coop and putting an external nest box on the outside. I’m thinking of putting a spring loaded hinge on a door that opens from the side with a gate latch. The reason for this is I have kids that will get eggs from time to time and I’m sure they will forget to put the carabeaner on at some point so at least there’s a latch and it will autoclose. Any thoughts on this? I see most boxes open from the top or drop down. Looking for a predator proof way that will auto latch.

 

[cavemanrich]

If door snaps closed and latch holds well, then it should be predator proof. I know raccoons are smart enough to open some latches. Of course they are not that smart to remove carabiners.
If you are able to put one of these in place, I think it would be even better.

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