Temporary Fencing

[micstrachan]

Hello. I have a secure 250 sq ft run (1/2-inch hardware cloth on all sides and top with a skirt) where the flock spends most of their time. J like to free range them as much as possible after work and on weekends when the dog and I can both be out to deter predators. Normally they get my full 1/2 acre or so, plus my neighbor’s side. Unfortunately, the relationship has changed and I don’t trust my birds over there anymore. So until we can put up a fence (not anytime soon, since we rent) I need a temporary free range containment system. I ordered 3-foot tall black plastic poultry fencing. Will that somewhat contain them? Obviously, they can get over it, but I’ll be out there with them and can watch for jumpers/flyers. Thanks!

 

[Kiki]

I think that will work and with you being out there you can probably try to teach them to stay away from the fence.
Shoo them away each time they get near it enough and they might just learn to stay away.

 

[micstrachan]

Thanks, Kiki! I got some up tonight. It looks a bit hokey, but they were VERY happy to get out and it easily contained them. My sweet dog, Lexi, was also very happy!

 

[micstrachan]

Ester jumped the “fence” late in the day today. OF COURSE, she is the one bird out of ten I can’t catch. She eventually wanted to come home, but couldn’t figure out how. I called them alll with a few wheat berries and opened the gate. She came right in when I tossed a couple at the entrance. Then I did the same to get them from their yard into their run. Whew! I’ll have to keep making their area more and more interesting, since it’s like 1/6 of what they had for free range time before. There’s lots more space behind the house, but it’s loaded with poison oak and we’re all super allergic.

So the top edge of the plastic poultry fencing is really floppy. How do you tighten it without tearing the plastic? Do I need the stakes closer together? If so,I’ll need to buy some more.

 

[Kiki]

@R2elk Does she want the top of the stuff to be floppy?