Building a Fox-Proof Chook Pen

1. Mesh

Use strong welded or heavy mesh, not light chicken wire, which foxes and dogs can tear. Small enough holes keep out snakes and rats too.

2. Stop digging

Foxes dig. Bury the mesh 30 cm or more, or lay an apron of mesh flat on the ground outward from the base, pegged down.

3. Roof it

Foxes climb and jump. A roofed run, or at least a mesh roof over the coop area, stops them going over the top.

4. Lock up at dusk

The coop door must be shut every night. An automatic door that closes at dusk helps if you're often late home.

5. Check for gaps

Walk around it regularly. Look for holes, lifting mesh and gaps at doors.

6. Quick summary

• Strong mesh, buried or aproned.
• A roof over the run.
• Lock up every night.

General information only. Check the maker's instructions, and ask your council about approvals.

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