Security with coop area

[Pfv]

i built a large enclosure, completely wrapped in hardware cloth. Inside, we have our coop. I’m assuming there would be no reason why I can’t keep the coop door open at night with all the protection the enclosure offers?

 

[IamRainey]

I do. But I have my hardware cloth dug in 12" and, just for added insurance, I have a perimeter of heavy 12" concrete pavers. I added when I found rats inside. I never was able to find out how they got in there so once they were dispatched I wanted extra protection.

Happy to say that after 2 years of rats, coyotes, skunks, hawks, etc. we haven't lost a chicken to a predator. And the chickens go up and down freely when it suits them.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

If there are no openings larger than 1/2", no way to enter from the top or dig under, then you are good to go.

 

[rosemarythyme]

It's up to you. Locking them up in the coop provides an extra layer of protection but if you feel the enclosure is solid as can be and you're confident in it, you don't have to lock them up if you don't want to.

 

[aart]

Hard to tell quite where the coop is in that pic...except for the pop door are there no other windows or vents? More pics, please?

Oh, and....Welcome to BYC! @Pfv
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, (laptop version shown), then it's always there!

 

[Pfv]

Thanks for the confirmation. I think they should be protected with what I’ve built. Just wanted some confirmation.