Predator-proof run

[JakesHappyHenHouse]

Building our first coop- small, elevated with attached run. I see everyone putting aprons around their coops and runs. If you're run has hardware cloth covering the whole bottom and up the sides and top, why use an apron? Or is it just that it's cheaper to use less and put it around as an apron instead of the whole footprint? We're in rural southern Oregon- lots of predators including coyotes, hawks, and rodents. Haven't seen a fox yet, but I wouldn't be surprised if they're around. Thank you!

 

[aart]

Or is it just that it's cheaper to use less and put it around as an apron instead of the whole footprint?

Yep. Also better for the chickens feet.
And you don't want rodents living under your mesh floor run.

Good examples of anti-dig apron installation.
If rodents are prolific, burying the apron ~12" would be good.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/wire-around-coop.1110498/#post-17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208

 

[rosemarythyme]

Ideally the apron would keep anything from digging or tunneling in, so no need to cover the run floor in wire, which has the potential of damaging feet when the chickens dig around.

 

[mowin]

I didn't bury my apron. I just laid it on the ground. Grass eventually grew through it and I can hard see it.

Predators instinctively dig at the base of the coop and run, hitting the apron. They won't back up looking for the end of the apron.

 

[msirene]

I didn't bury my apron. I just laid it on the ground. Grass eventually grew through it and I can hard see it.

Predators instinctively dig at the base of the coop and run, hitting the apron. They won't back up looking for the end of the apron.

This explanation makes the apron make sense suddenly -- I don't know why I wasn't getting it before, lol! Thank you

 

[BaaKaaawk]

Haven't seen a fox yet, but I wouldn't be surprised if they're around. Thank you!

They don't say "sly as a fox" for no reason. They're probably watching you... right... now.

 

[aart]

They don't say "sly as a fox" for no reason. They're probably watching you... right... now.

Reminds me of a time I saw/heard a coyote hit the run fence from upstairs, I yelled out the window and it took off.
I went out to take a look, was standing in the run for a few minutes before I saw it sitting just inside the woods about 50' away staring right at me.

 

[BaaKaaawk]

Reminds me of a time I saw/heard a coyote hit the run fence from upstairs, I yelled out the window and it took off.
I went out to take a look, was standing in the run for a few minutes before I saw it sitting just inside the woods about 50' away staring right at me.