Prepping for first flock: Rabbit Hutch

[gummylick]

My first flock of 3 hens and 1 roo will arrive soon and I've ordered this (used) for their hutch. Some modifications I'm thinking of are:

1. a small hole for a tube to go out to water and water cups inside.
2. cut a rectangle on open side and cover with screen for more ventillation
3. remove bottom tray and nail hardware cloth for floor?

At this point, a number of changes. Hutch itself was $77. That said, will this all work?

It's dimensions: 45.7 in x 24.8 in x 36.2 in

 

[Nabiki]

That will work if you plan to keep them indoors in some way. That thing does not look to be at all predator proof. A raccoon will reach right through those bars and pull your quail out piece by piece. You could wrap it all in hardware cloth to beef it up some.

 

[gummylick]

like the front bar area, right? cover it in hardware cloth?

 

[Nabiki]

like the front bar area, right? cover it in hardware cloth?

Yes. I'm not sure how sturdy the wood is, but if it isn't super sturdy, a dog could probably break it open. A big raccoon probably could as well. It's hard to find good premade enclosures without spending a lot of money.

 

[gummylick]

It weighs 55lbs, so I'm hoping for a bit of heft but who knows. Yes, it's difficult finding anything premade.

 

[Nabiki]

Good luck and keep us posted. I definitely recommend hardware cloth over the bar section to keep out predators. Even mice and rats can be a danger to quail.

 

[gummylick]

definately, after your tip considering just cutting the bars out and adding the cloth. we'll see. thanks for your help!

 

[CliftonQuail]

I'd probably leave the bars in. Even though 1/2" hardware cloth is fairly stiff, the existing wire would help keep it from bowing in or out.

Edit to add: If you plan to keep the birds outside, I highly recommend coming up with a better latch for the door. That looks like a typical barrel latch. I've read that raccoons can open those with ease.

 

[gummylick]

whoah, thanks. I'll add change the lock to my list!