The standard, not chicken wire
Chicken wire keeps chickens in but does not keep predators out. Raccoons, foxes, weasels, and dogs can tear through it. The standard for predator-proof coops is half-inch hardware cloth (welded wire mesh), secured with screws and washers rather than staples.
Stopping diggers
For digging predators (foxes, dogs, coyotes), bury hardware cloth 12 to 18 inches deep as an apron around the coop perimeter. An alternative: bend the hardware cloth into an L-shape extending outward from the base, covered with soil or gravel. The predator digs at the base, hits the mesh, and gives up.
Close before dusk
Most predator attacks happen at dusk and dawn. Close and latch the coop door every evening before dusk. Automatic coop doors on timers or light sensors are a reliable backup for forgetful evenings.
- Half-inch hardware cloth, not chicken wire
- Secure with screws and washers, not staples
- Bury apron 12-18 inches deep around the perimeter
- Close and latch the coop before dusk every evening
- Automatic coop doors add reliability
- UGA Extension — Poultry predator management.