Simpe run, 10' x 30' in size

[CASDOG1]

I am looking for blueprints for a simple run for a flock of 16 layers. I've already got houses with nest boxes. I plan to let them free range when I can supervise but I want it to be large enough that it isn't a strict necessity for them to free range. Predator proof is not essential as the run will be inside the goat's area which is patrolled by my livestock guardian dogs, but I do plan to put a shingled roof over a portion of it & cover the rest with bird netting to prevent aerial assaults (one can never be too careful!). Since it will be covered it will need to be at least 6 feet high so I can stand upright to clean it (I am nearly 6 feet tall). I don't want to spend hundreds of dollars & it doesn't need to be pretty & elaborate, just functional & sturdy. I don't plan on staying on this property forever, so I'm not going to make a beautiful run & hen house that I will then be sad to leave behind, lol.

I have looked at all of the large runs in the Coops section & they are all much more elaborate than my needs or my skills. Beautiful work, though!

Thanks!

Anna & the Thunder Mountain Gang
Woodruff, SC

 

[RonC]

I'n not sure if chicken wire would suffice in your situation but would be the cheapest option. Welded wire fencing would be much sturdier. Either way use T-post or wood for the framework. Maybe add some taller poles to hold the center of the bird netting higher.

 

[CASDOG1]

Oh that's a good idea about a post to hold the netting higher. Chicken wire should be fine. The dogs won't mess with it & as long as nothing is growing on it the goats won't either. Thank!

~~~
Anna and the Thunder Mountain Gang

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Quote: Have the dogs been around chickens before?

 

[CASDOG1]

Yes, they are livestock guardian dogs. Both were born on farms & both were raised with chickens. I have been chicken-less for a couple of years because my last birds kept hopping the fence into the pet dog yard when I wasn't home, where my Chow mix, who is NOT a livestock guardian & is not allowed in the stock area, killed them all. She is turning 14 in a few weeks & is going blind & deaf so with a bigger run for when I can't supervise & supervised free range time, I am trying again.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

I'd still use 2 X 4 welded wire instead of poultry wire