Sophie Bennett
Chicken wire is often used to keep chickens in a designated area, but it may not be as effective at keeping predators out. To prevent animals from digging their way into a chicken coop, it is recommended to bury the fencing underground. The depth of burial can vary from 6 inches to 18 inches, with some sources recommending a minimum depth of 8 to 12 inches for greater protection. Burying chicken wire involves digging a trench, placing the wire, and covering it with soil. Some people choose to staple or stake the wire in place for added security. It is important to consider the type of soil, as sandy soil may require a greater depth for effective protection. Chicken wire can also be used in conjunction with an electric fence or welded wire for added security.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How deep to dig | 8-18 inches |
| Purpose | To prevent predators from digging underneath and stealing chickens |
| Chicken wire material | Gopher wire, galvanized chicken wire, welded wire, hardware cloth, poultry netting |
| Chicken wire length | 1-2 feet wide, parallel to the entire length of the fence |
| Chicken wire placement | Buried straight down or fanned out from the sides like an apron |
| Chicken wire attachment | Stapled to the bottom of the fence, staked down with U-shaped stakes or landscape staples, wrapped around bricks, or anchored with flagstones |
| Additional security measures | Boarding to secure chicken fencing at the bottom, electric fence, plywood floor |
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What You'll Learn
Burying chicken wire to prevent predators
Chicken wire can be used to prevent predators from digging under your chicken coop. However, it is worth noting that chicken wire is not very effective at keeping predators out. Raccoons, coyotes, and even dogs can still dig or chew through chicken wire. For better protection, it is recommended to use hardware cloth or galvanized steel hog panels instead.
There are two main methods for installing wire to prevent predators from digging under your chicken coop: burying it or aproning it. Burying the wire involves digging a trench around the perimeter of the coop and burying the wire straight down or at an angle. The recommended depth for burying wire is between 18 and 24 inches. However, this method may not be feasible for everyone due to time and physical constraints.
Aproning is a more accessible alternative to burying, especially if your run is located in an area with a lot of tree roots or solid materials like concrete. To apron the wire, lay it flat on the ground around the perimeter of the coop, extending it out like an apron. Then, firmly attach it to the bottom of the run with hog rings, J-Clips, or pieces of wire. Putting a couple of inches of dirt or sod on top will keep it flat and out of the way of mowers and weed eaters. The wire should also be attached partially up the run or coop wall to prevent predators from digging underneath.
In addition to wire, there are other methods to deter predators. One option is to install a hot wire 6 inches above the ground, which will shock canid-type predators like coyotes and raccoons. Another option is to place concrete pavers or large rocks around the perimeter of the coop, making it difficult for predators to dig underneath.
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Chicken wire depth requirements
Chicken wire should be buried at a depth of at least 8 inches, with some sources recommending a depth of 12 inches for added security against predators. Burying the wire creates a barrier that prevents animals from digging underneath and entering the enclosure. This is particularly important if you plan to leave your chickens unattended for extended periods.
The depth of burial depends on the type of animal you are trying to deter. For example, rats may be the most likely pest to dig under your chicken run, and a depth of 8 to 12 inches should be sufficient to deter them. However, other animals such as raccoons, cats, dogs, and even foxes may also attempt to dig under the run. In this case, a deeper burial of 12 inches or more may be necessary.
One method to enhance the effectiveness of the buried chicken wire is to fan it out from the sides like an apron. This creates a wider barrier that makes it more difficult for animals to dig under. Another option is to lay the wire on the ground and stake it down with U-shaped stakes, allowing the grass to grow through the wire. This method secures the wire in place while also providing a natural appearance.
It is important to note that while chicken wire is effective for keeping chickens contained within an enclosure, it may not be as successful in preventing determined predators from gaining access. Stronger animals, such as foxes and badgers, can sometimes tear through chicken wire. Therefore, it is recommended to use stronger wire or mesh for the fence itself, and consider additional security measures such as electric fencing or boarding along the bottom of the fence.
The type of soil and terrain can also impact the depth requirements for chicken wire. For example, sandy soil that is easier to dig may require a deeper burial or additional measures such as boarding to secure the chicken wire effectively. Additionally, if you are placing the chicken wire in an area with existing vegetation, you may need to dig a trench to accommodate the wire and ensure it is securely anchored.
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Chicken wire fencing options
Chicken wire fencing is important if you want to keep your chickens safe from predators. While chicken wire is good at keeping chickens in an area, it is less effective at keeping predators out. Foxes, badgers, skunks, and even domestic dogs can all pose a threat to your chickens.
Chicken wire should be buried at least 8 inches into the ground, with some sources recommending a depth of 12 inches. One source mentions burying wire a foot underground and claims that it worked well for them. Burying wire straight down is one option, but you can also fan it out from the sides like an apron, securing it at the corners with flagstones. You can also lay the fencing on the ground and stake it down, or pull back the sod and put the fencing under it. If you have sandy soil, you may want to consider improving the depth of your chicken fencing, as it is easier for predators to dig through.
Another option is to use boards around the base of your fencing, which helps to keep the substrate inside the run and secures the vulnerable bottom edge of the netting. You can also overlap the wire to increase the depth. One source recommends burying the first length of wire a foot underground and then overlapping the next length so that the bottom 3 feet are doubled up.
If you are worried about the wire breaking and causing injury, you can use plywood to cover gaps in the fencing. One source mentions using pavers or bricks underneath the fence to prevent digging. Another option is to use an electric fence, but this requires a powerful energizer and the chicken must be in contact with the ground for it to work effectively.
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Chicken wire alternatives
Chicken wire is commonly used to build chicken coops and fences. It is flexible, made from twisted steel wire, and is available at a low cost. However, it is not very effective at keeping predators out, as stronger animals can tear through it.
- Hardware cloth: This is widely considered the best choice for fencing. Hardware cloth is made from thicker wire, making it stronger and more durable than chicken wire. Its small mesh size, typically with openings of one inch or less, makes it difficult for small predators to get through. It is also highly durable due to its galvanized properties, which resist penetration.
- Electric fence: An electric fence can be an effective way to keep predators out. However, it requires a powerful energizer to deliver a shock to the animal through the feathers to the skin. The chicken must be in contact with the electric wire for the current to flow and deliver a shock.
- Poultry netting: This is another option for creating chicken coops. It is flexible and can be easily set up to change the shape and position of the chicken run. However, it may not be strong enough to keep out determined predators like foxes.
- Plastic mesh or deer fencing: These alternatives are generally cheaper than chicken wire and provide more material per roll. They can be effective for temporary fencing solutions or for keeping out smaller animals like squirrels.
- Window screen: This type of mesh is designed to withstand impacts from animals like dogs and cats. It can be an affordable option, depending on the type of screen you choose.
- Steel fencing: Steel fencing offers more stiffness and strength compared to chicken wire but requires more force to bend and shape.
When choosing an alternative to chicken wire, consider the type of predator you need to keep out, the durability and strength of the material, and your budget.
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Chicken wire maintenance
- Inspect for Weak Points: Regularly walk around the perimeter of your chicken wire fence, looking for any weak spots, tears, or gaps. Foxes and other predators can quickly tear through chicken wire if it is not secure.
- Repair any Damage: If you find any damage to the wire, repair it immediately. You can use wire cutters and pliers to cut and bend the wire back into place, securing it with staples or ties if needed.
- Secure the Bottom Edge: Chicken wire should be buried in the ground to prevent animals from digging underneath. Bury the wire at least 8 inches deep, and ideally 12 inches for added security. You can also bend the wire out and bury it 6 inches with a 6-inch overlap.
- Use Boards or Pavers: For extra protection, consider adding a physical barrier along the bottom edge of the fence. Boards or pavers can be placed around the base to secure the chicken wire and create a rigid edge that is more difficult for animals to dig through.
- Maintain the Depth of Burial: Over time, the soil may settle or shift, causing the buried wire to become exposed. Periodically check the depth of the wire and re-bury any sections that have become too shallow.
- Consider Electric Fencing: If you have persistent problems with predators, consider installing an electric fence. While it requires the chickens to be in contact with the ground, it can provide an effective deterrent against animals trying to dig underneath.
By following these maintenance steps, you can help ensure that your chicken wire fence remains secure and effective in protecting your chickens from potential threats. Regular inspections, repairs, and adjustments to the depth of burial will go a long way toward maintaining the integrity of your chicken wire enclosure.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you dig the wire at least 8 inches into the ground, with 12 inches being the ideal depth to be completely safe.
Chicken wire keeps chickens in but doesn't work as well to keep things out. Burying the wire helps to prevent predators from digging underneath and stealing chickens.
Some alternatives include using an electric fence, laying wire on the ground and staking it in place with U-shaped stakes, or using boards around the base to secure the chicken fencing.
Chicken wire can be used, but it may not be the most durable option as it breaks easily and can be sharp. Stronger options include British-manufactured wire from a farmer's outlet or welded wire.
You can dig a trench that is 8-10 inches deep and 6-8 inches wide. The chicken wire should be stapled to the bottom of the fence and extend straight into the ground. You can then cover the wire with soil or leave it exposed, as large parts of it will eventually be pressed into the ground.
