fencing in baby chicks

[GreenHaven]

For chicks raised by broody hens, I've found my first group of chicks could easily pass through the fencing that I have, leaving Mama Hen looking out helplessly. I am looking at using a smaller mesh to enclose the chicks. I'm thinking 1x1 is safe, but also saw an option with 1.5 x 2 inch (rectangular) spacing. (I hate using chicken wire - so I'm looking at wire mesh options.) Anyone have experience with either?

 

[21hens-incharge]

I use panels with 1/2" hardware cloth to pen in chicks.
The 1.5 x 2 inch would be to open and they will still fit through for a few weeks or longer.

 

[FarmerGirl101]

I use 1/2" and 1/4" hardwire cloth. It helps keep chicks in and rats out.

 

[rosemarythyme]

1" x 1" is probably small enough to keep chicks in, though I'd fear them sticking their heads out/getting their heads caught in it. 1.5" x 2" I could definitely imagine tiny chicks managing to squish through that.

My brooder is 0.5" x 1" welded wire and that does contain them, so that's as big of opening as I'd go.

 

[GreenHaven]

Thank you all for the replies. Amazing how tiny their little bodies are under all that adorable fluff.