Share your top DIY build tips for a simple, predator-proof chicken coop.

Building a Fortress, Not Just a Coop: The Basics of Predator-Proofing

For any backyard chicken keeper, the safety of your flock is paramount. A simple, well-built coop is one thing, but a predator-proof coop offers true peace of mind. Predators are cunning and persistent, so your DIY build needs to be one step ahead. Here are our top tips for constructing a secure haven for your feathered friends.

Start with a Solid Foundation and Smart Design

Before you even cut your first piece of lumber, proper planning is crucial. Consider your local predators (foxes, raccoons, opossums, hawks, etc.) and design accordingly. Elevate your coop off the ground to deter digging predators and prevent moisture issues. A raised floor also makes it harder for snakes and rodents to enter.

• Site Selection: Choose a level, well-drained area. Consider shade in summer and sun in winter.
• Size Matters: Ensure ample space — at least 2-4 square feet per bird inside the coop, and 8-10 square feet per bird in the run if enclosed.
• Ventilation is Key: Incorporate high vents (covered with hardware cloth) for airflow without drafts. This prevents respiratory issues.

Materials That Make a Difference

Your choice of materials directly impacts your coop’s security. Don’t skimp here!

• Framing: Use sturdy, pressure-treated lumber for the base and untreated lumber for the upper frame.
• Walls: Plywood (at least 1/2 inch thick) or reclaimed wood panels can work. Ensure there are no gaps or weak spots.
• Roofing: Opt for durable materials like corrugated metal, asphalt shingles, or polycarbonate panels. Ensure a good overhang to protect walls from rain.

The Imperative of Hardware Cloth

This is arguably the most critical element for predator proofing. Forget chicken wire; it’s only good for keeping chickens in, not predators out. Raccoons can tear through it easily.

• Use 1/2 inch or 1/4 inch Hardware Cloth: This heavy-gauge, welded wire mesh is impenetrable to most predators, including rats, weasels, and raccoons.
• Secure Every Opening: Cover all windows, vents, and the entire run with hardware cloth. Fasten it securely with screws and washers, not just staples.
• The Buried Skirt: Extend hardware cloth outwards from the base of your coop and run, and bury it at least 12-18 inches deep, or create an L-shaped apron buried 6-12 inches deep and extending out 12-18 inches. This prevents digging predators from tunneling underneath.

Secure All Entry Points: Doors and Latches

A strong structure is useless if the doors aren’t secure.

• Heavy-Duty Latches: Use barrel bolts or slide latches that cannot be easily manipulated by clever paws. For extra security, consider a carabiner clip through the latch.
• Multiple Latching Points: For larger doors, use two latches — one high, one low.
• Close Gaps: Ensure doors fit snugly within their frames, leaving no significant gaps that a predator could exploit. Reinforce door edges if necessary.

Internal Comforts and Easy Maintenance

While external security is key, don’t forget the inside. Roosting bars should be sturdy and high, and nest boxes easily accessible for you but not for predators. Design for easy cleaning to maintain a healthy environment.

• Removable Roosts: Makes cleaning simpler.
• External Nest Box Access: A common design feature that allows egg collection without entering the coop, but ensure the access door is just as predator-proof as the main door.

Conclusion: Peace of Mind for You and Your Flock

Building a simple, predator-proof chicken coop is a rewarding DIY project that ensures the long-term safety and well-being of your flock. By focusing on sturdy construction, choosing the right materials (especially hardware cloth), and securing all entry points, you’ll create a haven that stands up to even the most determined predators. Enjoy the fresh eggs and happy clucks, knowing your chickens are safe and sound!