Chicken Run Fence: How High Is High Enough?

Chicken fencing is a fundamental requirement for keeping poultry safe from predators. The type of fencing required depends on the local wildlife and the size of the birds. For example, in the UK, foxes are the biggest threat to poultry, whereas in the US, you may have to protect your chickens from coyotes. The height of your fence will also depend on the breed of your chickens, as some are better fliers than others. Generally, a fence should be at least 5-6 feet tall to prevent chickens from flying over it, but some people recommend an 8-foot fence for extra protection.

Chicken wire fencing should be at least 6 feet tall to prevent chickens from flying over

In addition to height, other factors to consider when constructing a chicken wire fence include the size of the wire mesh and the type of material used. The wire mesh should be small enough to prevent chickens from squeezing through. Some people recommend using poultry netting or hexagonal netting, which has a honeycomb appearance and is made of thin wire twisted and woven together. However, this type of netting may not deter motivated predators from breaking through with brute strength.

To protect against predators, it is recommended to use a metal fence with small mesh holes. A PVC coating can also offer additional security against harsh weather and predatory animals. An electric poultry net fence is an option, but it must be constantly electrified, and chickens can get tangled in the polywire net and get electrocuted.

It is also important to consider the bottom of the fence to prevent animals from digging underneath. The wire should be buried 8-12 inches in the ground and then turned outwards to prevent animals like foxes and badgers from digging their way into the enclosure.

Constructing a chicken wire fence that is at least 6 feet tall and taking into consideration the size of the wire mesh, type of material, and proper installation techniques will help create a secure enclosure for your chickens.

Bury the fence 8-12 inches in the ground to prevent foxes and badgers from digging under

When constructing a fence for your chicken run, it is important to consider the height as well as the depth of the fence to ensure the safety of your chickens. Burying the fence 8–12 inches into the ground is a crucial step to prevent foxes and badgers from accessing the chicken run. This depth is effective as it makes it difficult for predators to dig under the fence and gain entry.

By burying the fence to this depth, you create a physical barrier that extends below ground level, making it challenging for foxes and badgers to penetrate. Foxes and badgers are known for their ability to dig and their persistence in trying to reach their prey. However, with a fence buried 8–12 inches underground, they will find it difficult to gain purchase and create a large enough gap to squeeze through.

The depth of 8–12 inches is also sufficient to prevent the fence from being lifted or pushed upwards by persistent digging. This ensures that the fence remains secure and intact, providing a reliable barrier against predators. Regular inspections of the fence are still recommended to identify any potential weak spots or areas where the fence may have been disturbed.

Additionally, when burying the fence, it is important to ensure that the fence is securely anchored and that the soil is compacted firmly around it. This helps to eliminate any potential gaps that could provide an entry point for foxes or badgers. The process of burying the fence can be labour-intensive, but it is a crucial step in creating a secure environment for your chickens.

Overall, by burying your chicken run fence to a depth of 8–12 inches, you can effectively deter foxes and badgers from accessing the enclosure. This depth acts as a physical barrier, preventing these predators from digging their way under the fence and keeping your chickens safe from potential harm. Remember to also consider the height of the fence and other security measures to create a comprehensive protection system for your flock.

Electric poultry netting and fencing are options but are not humane

Electric poultry netting and fencing are effective options for containing chickens and protecting them from predators. However, they may not be the most humane choices. While electric fences can deter large predators, they do not prevent attacks from aerial predators, such as owls, as one user sadly discovered. Electric fences also carry the risk of shocking the birds contained within, which may not be desirable.

Electric poultry netting is available in different heights, catering to different bird species. The 42" netting is recommended for heavy, non-flying birds, while the taller 48" net is more suitable for active birds that like to fly and can also discourage large predators. However, even the taller option may not be sufficient to contain all chickens, as some birds can fly over a 6-foot fence, and netting may be required to prevent escape.

The use of electric fencing and netting also requires constant vigilance, as they can be shorted out by snow or turned-up soil, rendering them ineffective. This means that electric fencing may require more maintenance and monitoring than other types of fencing, which could be considered less humane due to the increased time and effort required.

Additionally, electric fencing may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option, especially for smaller flocks or backyard setups. A user expressed their preference for an 8-foot fence to avoid feeling "hovered over" when inside the enclosure. This suggests that taller fencing, while effective, may not provide the most pleasant experience for those interacting with the chickens.

While electric poultry netting and fencing can be effective tools, they present certain challenges and considerations that may make them less humane than alternative options. It is important to weigh the benefits of electric fencing against the potential drawbacks to make an informed decision that prioritises the well-being of the chickens and users.

Metal fences with small mesh holes are more humane and provide additional protection from harsh weather

When building a fence for your chickens, it's important to consider not only the height but also the type of fencing you use. While a taller fence can help prevent chickens from flying over, using metal fences with small mesh holes offers several advantages in terms of both practicality and animal welfare.

Firstly, metal fences with small mesh holes provide a more humane option for your chickens. Unlike solid fences, mesh fencing allows for excellent ventilation, which is crucial for the health and comfort of your chickens, especially during hot weather. The small mesh holes also prevent chicks and smaller breeds, such as bantams, from escaping or getting stuck, ensuring the safety of your entire flock.

Additionally, metal fences with mesh offer better protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. The small mesh holes can deter smaller animals, such as rabbits and other pests, from entering the chicken run. In colder months, the mesh can act as a barrier against harsh winds while still allowing adequate airflow, providing a more comfortable environment for your chickens.

To enhance the protection offered by metal mesh fencing, consider burying the fencing a few inches into the ground. This will prevent chickens from escaping by digging and will also deter burrowing animals from entering the enclosure. For additional security, you may also want to install netting or wire across the top of the fence, especially if your chickens are strong fliers.

While metal fences with small mesh holes offer several benefits, it's important to note that fencing requirements may vary depending on the size and breed of your chickens, as well as the presence of other poultry or animals in the enclosure. Consulting with specialists in fencing or poultry care can help you make more informed decisions about the specific requirements of your chicken run fence.

The size of the wire squares or rectangles should be considered to keep chickens in

The size of the wire squares or rectangles is an important consideration when building a fence to keep chickens in. While the height of the fence is crucial to prevent chickens from flying over, the size of the wire squares or rectangles will determine whether they can squeeze through or not.

Chickens can fluff up their feathers and squeeze through tight spaces, so it is important to choose a wire size that is small enough to prevent escape. One source suggests that 4x4 wire fencing is suitable for larger chickens, but not for chicks, which can fit through poultry netting. Another source mentions that their 6 and 7-week-old pullets were able to squeeze through 2x4 no-climb horse fencing. Therefore, it is recommended to use smaller hardware cloth for chicks.

For those with a mixed flock of chickens and guineas, it is important to note that guineas can be more challenging to contain. One source mentions that their guineas would fly up into trees or onto the roof, even with a 4-foot stock fence. Thus, it is recommended to have a net top to prevent guineas from escaping.

When constructing a fence to keep chickens in, it is essential to consider the size of the wire squares or rectangles. While 4x4 or larger squares may be suitable for full-grown chickens, smaller squares or rectangles may be necessary for younger birds and those that are particularly good at squeezing through tight spaces. Additionally, if your flock includes guineas, a net top is advised to prevent them from flying over.

In summary, when building a fence to keep chickens in, it is important to consider the size of the wire squares or rectangles. While the specific size may vary depending on the age and breed of your chickens, it is generally recommended to use smaller squares or rectangles for younger birds and those that are adept at escaping. Additionally, if your flock includes guineas, a net top is advised to prevent them from flying over. By considering the size and needs of your flock, you can construct a safe and secure enclosure for your chickens.

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