predator-proofing a tractor?

[txnative]

I believe my tractor is as safe as can be from almost anything that can get them from above ground, BUT my biggest worry is snakes and other critters that can dig under the tractor. If it were totally stationary I could do things I've learned on this forum, but how do you reduce the risk with a mobile coop?

 

[JackE]

I would suggest electrified poultry netting. The fence is very easy to move. You could get a solar charger for it, so you could put it out in a field. Check out Premier's website and look at the options. I have 600' of it, and it has proven to be one of the best things I have down for the chickens.
Jack

 

[txnative]

That would stop most snakes? Wouldn't they just dig under it, too?

 

[bugglesmommy]

I have a wire bottom on my chick grow out tractor. I have lost enough chicks to snakes. Once they outgrow the tractor then they should be large enough for snakes to not bother with.

 

[centrarchid]

Delay introducing chickens until they are at least quail sized. The larger species of snake capable of consuming a larger birds will not be as good at digging. The bull snake is my biggest and baddest capable of consuming timber rattlers and bunnies but they have yet to be an issue with larger birds. Dogs may be part of reason for no issues with snakes, my dogs eat them,

 

[JackE]

That would stop most snakes? Wouldn't they just dig under it, too?

Yes it would. The electrified strands start about a 1.5 inches up. I don't believe a snake would try to dig under. He would see an open path in through the fence. A snake trying to go across would be killed if he didn't back up right away. I found a unlucky box turtle dead against the fence last week. You would think after the first zap, he would have put it in reverse and got out of there. But I guess he really wanted to get inside the fence.
Jack