01/06/2026
It is your responsibility to predator proof your chicken coops!
Whenever we want to keep predators out of any coop, porch, or enclosure, it must be built as if it were intended to contain them.
- Rule #1: If it could securely contain that predator, ONLY NOW will it exclude that predator.
- 1/2" or even 1/4" hardware cloth wire is good, but if you don't "sandwich" it into the framework and use screws w/ washers, it is vulnerable.
- Stapling wire it is NOT sufficient!
- If the enclosure is not sitting on concrete, a "dig defense" system is a must. No excuses, the dirt floor will fail you.
- Lattice is just for decoration and privacy.
- Screen is only for bugs.
- Chicken wire is ONLY good for chickens (ie, worthless protection!)
- Hardware matters! Weak hinges, flimsy roofs, and cheap latches will doom your efforts.
- Free-ranging chickens w/o supervision are a free meal. Don't blame or persecute our wildlife.
** THE ONLY NON-HUMAN CRITTER THAT CAN GET INTO A PROPERLY PREDATOR-PROOFED ENCLOSURE (or home!) IS.... NONE!
For more (free) predator-proofing support, reach out to
411WILDLIFE.org !