Welded wire fencing

[froghollowfarm]

I have 14-guage galvanized welded wire fence, whose rectangular spaces measure 2 inches by 4 inches. Is that sufficent for a chicken pen or are the spaces too large?

 

[fhdogs]

I use the same fencing. Depending on predators where you are, I would recommend either electric along with that wire, or hardware cloth along the bottom of the fence extending underground to prevent digging.

 

[Big C]

Definately will not deter snakes and other smaller predators that could squeeze thru which are many depending on your area.
If you have chickens at about 12 weeks or better it would keep them in.

 

[wombat]

You could use that and then add hardware cloth along the bottom few feet as well.

 

[patandchickens]

Sure, lots of people use that sort of arrangement -- it needs to be dig-proofed just like any other fencing (I recommend an apron rather than burial), and it would be a reeeeeeally good idea to run hardwarecloth or 1/2" chickenwire or even, if all else fails, at least some regular ol' 1" chickenwire, along the inside on the bottom 2-3' of the fence. This keeps chicks inside, and also prevents a variety of problems that can result when chcikens and/or predators can reach body parts through the fence.

Yeah, it is true that like chainlink and 1x1 mesh it won't keep out weasels, snakes, or rats... and the 2x4 mesh additionally won't keep out very small baby raccoons or baby possums... but you know what, there are hardly any baby raccoons or possums afoot during the daytime; not much DOES keep out weasels or rats.

I think it's a very reasonable run fencing option in many (not all) situations, provided you add the smaller mesh along the bottom.

JMHO, have fun,

Pat

 

[cmom]

I agree with Pat. I think you will need a smaller mesh around the bottom.