What I Learned After a Major Mistake with My Backyard Chickens

[CompostChampion]

When I built my first coop, I thought it was predator-proof because I buried the fencing a few inches into the ground.

What I didn’t know is that raccoons are expert diggers and can easily get under shallow fencing.
One morning, I woke up to find that something had tunneled into the run, and I lost two of my hens.

It was heartbreaking.

After doing some research, I learned about using an apron fence.
Instead of just burying the fencing straight down, you lay it out flat along the ground, extending about 12-18 inches outward from the coop and run.
Predators try to dig right at the base of the fence and hit the horizontal barrier, which they can’t figure out how to bypass.
It’s been a game-changer!

The lesson here is that it’s not just about making the coop sturdy but also thinking like a predator when planning your setup.

Chickens rely on us to keep them safe, and even small oversights can have big consequences.

[HenThusiast]

Great tip! I think apron fencing is one of the best defenses against digging predators.

[Eggplorer]

I also reinforce my coop by using a double-layer of fencing-one buried apron and another electric wire around the base.

So far, no breaches!

[PasturePecker]

Thanks for sharing

[HenHobbyist]

Predators are relentless! I've found that adding large rocks or pavers on top of the apron fencing makes it even more effective. They give up fast when they hit something solid.

[EggHarvester]

Sorry for your loss. I had a similar experience and now use an apron fence along with motion-activated lights to deter nocturnal predators. A secure coop door at night is also a must!