Will Chain Link Fence Work to Keep my Chickens in?
While some people prefer using other materials for a chicken fence, chain link fencing is a great option, and you can create a chain link kennel that will act as a deterrent for predators in the area. Chain link is an excellent option as it is durable and cost-effective to ensure your chickens are not hurt. When creating safe housing for chickens, some people prefer using a double layer of mesh on the outside bottom perimeter so that raccoons cannot reach into the chicken coop.
What Requirements Are Needed For A Chain Link Fence In My Chicken Coop?
When creating an excellent chicken coop with a chain link fence, you should use a predator-proof latch. Latches should only be opened with multiple steps, and a locking system should be used. Along with this, you should be aware of predators in the area. Your fencing should have an opening of at most a quarter because raccoons and weasels can quickly get through these. Placing barbed wire at the top of your fence can deter foxes, bobcats, and other domestic cats from harming your flock. Remember that with any chicken housing operation, you should always verge on the side of caution. While having a guard animal and a rooster will boost the security of your flock, there are better ways of ensuring large predators will not disturb your chickens.
Positives And Negatives Of Using A Chain Link Fence For Chicken Housing
While chain link has many positives that come with it, such as being aesthetically pleasing and being high enough to where chickens can not fly over it, it does come with some drawbacks. One of these is that chickens and other predators can climb a chain link fence even if it is pretty high. And if you do not have a small enough mesh, predators can find a way to get inside. Chain link may also be slightly more expensive than other methods, such as chicken wire or garden fencing.
However, you can mitigate these problems by using a mesh that does not have large holes and ensuring your chicken coop is closed at the top with durable materials that can hold heavy predators. Mountain lions can jump over 12 feet, so a fence cannot stop these top predators. Compared to chicken wiring, chain link fencing will last many years and offer unparalleled durability.
How Do I Ensure Predators Can Not Dig Under My Chain Link Fence?
One of the biggest concerns with using chain link fence to protect your chickens is the bottom where the mesh and tension wire meet. You can secure the bottom part of the fence by adding a bottom rail to your chain link fence, using chain link stakes, or purchasing a specialty chain link guard. Since you will be using this fence to secure your chickens, you must ensure that the bottom is secured and is not susceptible to dogs or other predators who enjoy digging under fences.
Chain Link For Your Chicken Fence
Chain link is a great way to keep your chickens safe and provide contained roaming areas. If you want to find the ideal mesh for your chicken fence, don't hesitate to get in touch with us today. We will help you find a customized mesh fencing solution for your chain link fence.
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