The best predator proof ladder design

[TooCheep]

Thanks for listening. No one here objects to what you are trying to give to these chickens.

But if you read some of the stories here about chickens in a total panic when a predator enters their coop and they are blind in the darkness or when a chicken is eaten alive or the desperate posts from owners with maimed birds that are looking for help, you will understand our concern about using a ladder to an open door at night.

Also, it wasn't clear from your posts, but understand that you will still be getting eggs. Battery chickens are generally given up because they are past their egg-laying peak, but they will still be laying eggs for quite some time afterwards. Be sure to have sufficient nesting boxes for them to use.

 

[aart]

Interesting scenario.
How far from house is the coop?
What does the coop look like?
Pics would be most helpful here.
Here are some guides that will help you learn to post pics here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forums/announcements-feedback-issues-guides.3/?prefix_id=3

Oh, and..... Welcome to BYC! @skipody
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!

 

[Cyprus]

I think OP is in South Africa. We get a decent amount of people here from there and Jackals are indigenous to Africa.

 

[aart]

I think OP is in South Africa. We get a decent amount of people here from there and Jackals are indigenous to Africa.

Could be....only one way to find out for sure tho, eh?

 

[Cyprus]

Could be....only one way to find out for sure tho, eh?

A few ways, actually. But one is easiest

 

[aart]

But one is easiest

Ask them?

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Ask them?

I did!

 

[mikepeakhanggliding]

Jackals? Where in the world are you? If you have jackals, I am betting you don't have raccoons ....

But to answer your question, I would say any ladder a chicken can climb, a jackal and your other predators can climb easily as well. Height alone will not save them, I am sorry to say. Chickens need a sturdy support and a gradual incline. Foxes and martens will decimate your coop in a single night.

I agree with the others. Your heart is in the right place; you are to be commended for your compassion. But your plan is impractical and - I say it with all kindness - it is cruel as it stands. Please reconsider.

 

[mikepeakhanggliding]

So nobody actually knows whether a hen ladder would allow chickens to climb to overnight safety/roost. Plenty opinion. No experience or help.
My Opinion - loosely based on rational thought.
Light two legged creatures ,aka, in this case birds/specifically chickens, will Indeed be able to and will climb a "ladder" that, eg. Foxes will/can not.

That's what I think, in theory, however I've little experience in RL. I'll carry on searching Google for those that do have experience.