Sharp shinned hawk proofing run

[haileyroseme]

I have a persistent sharp shinned hawk in my area and need to cover my run. I don’t want to use netting because I don’t want to have to deal with song birds (or hawks, for that matter) getting caught in it. My question is - what wire fencing can I use to keep the sharpies out? They’re so small and so clever. I was planning to use 2x4 welded wire fencing for the sides and top of the run and a 2’ high layer of hardware cloth along the bottom. They’re totally enclosed at night so this is just for daytime predation, mostly just for sharpies. Would 2x4 welded wire fencing be too big for the top, and upper parts of the sides?

 

[Alaskan]

I have a persistent sharp shinned hawk in my area and need to cover my run. I don’t want to use netting because I don’t want to have to deal with song birds (or hawks, for that matter) getting caught in it. My question is - what wire fencing can I use to keep the sharpies out? They’re so small and so clever. I was planning to use 2x4 welded wire fencing for the sides and top of the run and a 2’ high layer of hardware cloth along the bottom. They’re totally enclosed at night so this is just for daytime predation, mostly just for sharpies. Would 2x4 welded wire fencing be too big for the top, and upper parts of the sides?

What area of the world do you live in? (In other words, how much snow do you get?)

Also, is the run under any trees?



If the netting is tight, then nothing will get tangled up in the netting. It is loosely dropped netting that tangles up birds.

However, a determined hawk might sit on the fence top and rip a hole through any netting, so wire would be safer.

I don't see how any hawk could get through 2x4 inch holes.

But yes, they could reach through holes that size, so I agree with smaller holes at ground level.

If your chickens have a perch located where the hawk perching on top could reach through and grab them, then that area will also need smaller holes or a bit of plywood.