Question on Run Security

[45lk9p459gm-w]

I’m still gathering information for a future coop and run. If my birds are kept in a secure coop at night, the only predators I need worry about are the daytime pests (?). Other than birds of prey the occasional stray dog is about it. …. My question is: will a hot wire along the bottom of the run be enough to deter the occasional four legged critter from assaulting the fence or trying to dig in during the day while the ladies are out and about?

 

[Alaskan]

I know one lady that runs one wire right above grass height to keep out rats, then a second one higher up for dogs and raccoons.

I REALLY love having a predator proof run so the pop door to the coop can be kept open.... and you can sleep in whenever without the girls being stuck waiting for you.

Having at least part of the run roofed is such a great luxury.

Personally, though I have done electric for goats and horses...never tried it for chickens.

 

[cmom]

This is what I have you can use step in posts or insulators. Nothing has gotten past my hot wires. I do have large pens that are covered with good heavy duty netting and concrete under the gates. I do have electric wires on the gates too. I leave the pop doors on the coops that have them, open 24/7. I have some coops that are completely open on one side. So far no intrusions. Anything that touches my electric wires will hurt for awhile. I think the predators teach their young that getting a chicken isn't worth getting zapped for. Good luck...
http://www.plamondon.com/wp/faq-simple-electric-fences-chickens/
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/a-treatise-on-electric-fencing.1117877/