I'm planning my build of the run. I ordered a prefab coop, because I have no building experience, lol. I will have 2 to 4 full size hens. I want to make it tall enough so I can walk into, and cost is a big factor. I plan on making a wooden frame, with a "^" at the top that I can put a tarp on. What should I use for the fencing material? Does chicken wire only have to come up a certain height? I'd appreciate any advice.
Chicken wire, or better & stronger, rabbit wire on the first 2 feet, so predators, like coons can't grab your birds as easy. On top, 2"x 4" weld wire (dog fence) works well.
If you do use chicken wire, please be aware that it isn't predator secure. Chicken wire keeps chickens in, and keeps hawks away from your birds, but that's about it.
Hardware cloth is really the most secure fencing, preferably a small gauge. It's a bit more expensive, but worth it if you have predators around.
Amen to the above! (http://www.lowes.com/pd_218929-1641... Activity 8.4.10-_-SC_Fencing_Area2-_-20112_6) Spend a little more, worry a lot less!
2x4 welded wire fencing with either hardware cloth or heavy guage chicken wire on the inside up about 2 feet. Don't know about you but I can't afford to build a large run out of hardware cloth. The good stuff is expensive.
We have a large run using 2x4 wire at least 5 ft. We have new chicks and when they are big enough to go outside, they will be in only part of it for awhile with a smaller gauge chicken or rabbit wire around the small area so they can't get out or can't be caught through the small openings. We gave away the layers, so now we only have the 3 wk old pullets and they have plenty of room in the chicken house. It has a window and screen door so is well ventilated.
