Fox Proofing the Chicken Coop & Suggestions to Keep Them Away
The fox is an efficient and clever hunter with the capability to dig and maneuver through very small spaces. With little effort, a fox can chew through chicken wire and open latches that are of simple operation. Factory-made coops often have both lightweight wire and flimsy latches which are merely an invitation to dinner for a fox. Fox are mostly nocturnal animals, so your chickens are most at risk at night, unfortunately, when you’re sleeping. However, a hungry fox who knows chickens are free ranging during the day, will hunt then. They’re smart and patient, they will watch your coop for weeks before they attack. Every bird the fox can grab in the coop will be killed, often the entire flock will be completely wiped out. They’ll take as many birds from the coop with them. I think I have your attention now, so here’s what you can do to help protect your flock… How to Fox Proof the Chicken Coop A wire floor secured to the coop frame will prevent the fox from burrowing under the coop. You can get wire that has bigger holes so your chickens can still scratch in the dirt. If that’s not possible, attach a wire skirt around the coop so that a fox can’t dig or burrow near the coop. However, this means you won’t be able to move your coop. Enclose the coop with heavy gauge wire and make sure there are no gaps in the corners, around doors, or where the sides meet the roof. Put two sturdy latches on the coop door, or use a lock. If there is access to the nest box make sure it’s locked at night. Building or Buying a Coop? Ideal housing for chickens where predators are a problem (which iseverywhere) is a ventilated shed or structure with solid walls and a floor for overnight. An attached covered pen with heavy gauge wire and perimeter wire skirting for daytime use. Suggestions to Help Keep Fox Away Sensor lights near the coop help keep away foxes, you can easily buy solar and put them low to the ground. Motion sprinklers near the coop are another option, predators are startled by water. Hope this article helps you keep your flock safe!
The chicks are heading into their 5th week in the brooder and will be ready to move into the coop the following week. This is what I call their transitional week. Their radiant heat source is slowly taken away, and they’ll also lose their all-night red lighting. The first few nights I switch from red lighting to a white night light, then the night light is taken away. By the time they transition from brooder to coop, they will have learned to accept cooler temperatures and total darkness at night. In most parts of the country, chicks are kept in the brooder until they are fully feathered, which is usually around 8 weeks. Here in Phoenix, Arizona, by the end of April temperatures during the day reach about 85-90, lows about 65. Therefore, it’s plenty warm to move the chicks to the coop at about 6 weeks. As you can see, they’re pretty well-feathered already!
The Finished Coop
The coop is an existing 10×10 x walk-in covered dog enclosure converted to a chicken coop. It’s inside a 3 stall covered open air barn, offering them plenty of shade and fresh air. It has taken almost 3 weeks to completely cover the chair link fencing with 1/2 inch hardware cloth. Needless to say, I have spent my self-quarantine time wisely. Unfortunately, my fingers are a mess from working with stubborn wire and zip ties.
Predators have been a problem in the past, we have had our share of traumatic experiences with hawks, bobcats, and coyotes. I’ve lost at 8 birds over the years, with so much time on my hands, this was a good time to put the effort into predator-proofing the coop. Not to mention keeping wild birds from entering the coop and eating all the chicken feed.
Tip: Chicken wire isn’t going to keep your birds safe from predators, always use hardware cloth. Chicken wire can be chewed through or easily bent to give predators access. Also, lay /bury hardware cloth at the base of the coop to prevent digging by raccoons and coyotes, etc. More About Predators
From coop building tips to feeding guides and health care advice, there’s a lot to learn. This post gathers the best tools and guides for every stage of your chicken keeping journey.
Baby Chicks
Raising Baby Chicks
The First 7 Weeks A comprehensive guide to preparing for and managing baby chicks with a step-by-step approach. Read Article/ TBN Ranch
Fecal impaction is a common issue among young chicks and can be fatal if ignored. Learn the signs and how to avoid this problem. Read Article / TBN Ranch
A chick brooder is a specialized enclosure or container created to offer a cozy and secure setting for recently hatched chicks. Here are the many types to choose from. Read Article / TBN Ranch
Managing the Brooder Temperature
This guide aims to assist you in ensuring their comfort by providing insights into their behavior, whether you choose to use a heat lamp or the modern radiant heat alternative. Read Article/ TBN Ranch
Often the stronger or larger birds rank highest in the social order. This article will help you learn how to minimize drama when bullying becomes excessive. TBN Ranch
The primary role of a rooster in a flock of chickens is to fertilize the eggs laid by the hens. Aside from fertilizing eggs, roosters also play a protective role in the flock. Continue Reading/ TBN Ranch
Seasonal Chicken Keeping
Keeping Chickens in Extreme Heat
Is your chicken yard and coop adequately designed to support the overall welfare of your flock during the summer season? It is crucial to make necessary preparations for extreme heat to prevent your birds from experiencing heat exhaustion and related issues. Read Article / TBN Ranch
Are you interested in a traditional design, something unique and unconventional, a do-it-yourself project, or maybe a more elaborate setup? View Now / TBN Ranch
Drinkers / Waterers
So many to choose from, but which one best fits your flock’s needs? Auto-fill, nipple, standard fill, or DIY, view them all in one convenient place HERE/ TBN Ranch
Nest boxes play a vital role in supporting both chickens and their caretakers, offering a range of benefits. Discover numerous suggestions to assist you in selecting perfect nest boxes. View Now / TBN Ranch
Creative Roost Ideas
There are so many different types of roosts, which one is best for your coop? Your birds need something suitable to roost on at night. Be creative! Here are over 50 types to inspire you. View Now / TBN Ranch
There are several common outdoor plants that are generally considered toxic to chickens, which makes it important for poultry owners to be aware of these potential hazards. Read ArticleTBN Ranch
There exists a wide array of exquisite chicken breeds, each presenting its own unique qualities. We will delve into the particulars, including temperament, egg size, egg color, egg production, and primary use. Breed Profiles/ TBN Ranch
The quality and safety of eggs can differ due to various factors, such as storage methods and whether they are raw or cooked. Nevertheless, I can provide you with fundamental safety guidelines. Read Article / TBN Ranch
Hatcheries for Mail-Order Chicks
Hatcheries
Explore my collection of top-notch hatcheries. I’ve have personally purchased chicks from many of these hatcheries and have been consistently satisfied. Read Article / TBN Ranch
From coop building tips to feeding guides and health care advice, there’s a lot to learn. This post gathers the best tools and guides for every stage of your chicken keeping journey.
TBN Ranch Chicken Keeping Resources 