Run is becoming dangerous!

[Kimberly13]

I have a coop attached to a run that is basically two dog runs put together so they have a large space. They also have the kennel covers tied down to the top of the run so that they are fairly safe. Here's the problem. The coop is set up under some trees and the girls have run the dirt so far down inside the run that the tree roots are showing and now we are getting holes under the fence because the dirt inside is dug out and the tree roots are allowing holes. What can I fill the whole run in with? If I add more dirt, won't they just dig and scratch it out again? Are rocks bad? Sand? Any ideas? TIA

 

[K0k0shka]

Do you have a hardware cloth apron on the ground around the run, to protect from predators digging under the fence (and taking advantage of the holes)? You could also put down bricks, pavers or large rocks around the inside perimeter of the fence so the chickens don't dig right up against or under the fence.

 

[Kimberly13]

No, I don't. Where do you get a cloth like this? And I love the paver idea! Thank you!

 

[K0k0shka]

No, I don't. Where do you get a cloth like this? And I love the paver idea! Thank you!

Hardware stores have them. Amazon does, too, at about the same price. Look up aprons and you'll get helpful tips on how to put one down.

 

[aart]

No, I don't. Where do you get a cloth like this? And I love the paver idea! Thank you!

Hardware cloth is a metal mesh, 1/2" is a good size.
You can get it at big box stores, but ordering from amazon might be the cheapest.
Here's a pic of some:


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

 

[chickens really]

Definitely put an underground apron of wire mesh fencing and you can use sand but will continually have to fill in holes. Pavers around the inside edges helps too..

 

[Kimberly13]

Hardware stores have them. Amazon does, too, at about the same price. Look up aprons and you'll get helpful tips on how to put one down.

I'm on it! Thank you.

 

[aart]

They are little diggers for sure!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/excavation-by-birds-a-word-of-warning.1086535/

 

[Kimberly13]

OMG! Why do they DO that?

 

[Rammy]

Wow. You sure they arent rabbits in diguise?