Predators and run

[Svejk]

Hello everyone.
I'm retrofitting an existing coop. I have a nice large zig-zag area for a run that is at the edge of the woods. We have skunk, racoon, possum, probably fox, and deer.

Half of the area has some sort of wooden fence, either the side of the coop, a garage or 6' tall cedar fence. I work about an hour away from home, so I'll want the girls to be in the run unattended and secure.

Can I simply attach hardware cloth to the existing wooden structure? Should I completely enclose the run in wire in spite of the wooden barriers? Must I cover the top?
Thank you.

 

[LynneP]

I'd use 1/2" gauge hardware cloth, and try to create an underground flange about 2' deep around the perimeter. Roofing is always a great idea, but otherwise, use the hardware cloth there, too, you can always roof at a later time over it.





We have a huge predator problem but no losses so far (2 years+)...

 

[Svejk]

Oh, perfect! Thanks so much for the pictures, Lynne, that helps immeasurably. Thank you!