How small a hole is weasel-proof?

[beth in vermont]

I protected my chickens for years with just chicken wire - that kept out the raccoons, foxes, dogs etc but last year a weasel got my rooster & hen (I was so sad). So I put 1/2" hardware cloth up for the top & sides of the coop and 1/4" wire buried 10" on the bottom. My last concern is the wood door to the coop. The door doesn't quite close snugly - more open at the top than the bottom and the largest space is about 3/4" wide. Is that enough for a weasel to get through?

 

[ruby]

the only thing I found weasel proof is a gun. I lost lots birds to them and minks. but buried wire does help

 

[woodmort]

It must be less than half an inch in diameter--I'd suggest quarter-inch hardware cloth at a maximum.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

3/4" wide. Is that enough for a weasel to get through?

"Weasel" is a generic term that describes a FAMILY of animals

The smallest weasels can get through that hole.

The larger, most dangerous cannot.

Find out what type inhabits YOUR area and work with that information​

 

[woodmort]

In Vermont the smallest--and most dangerous--can easily fit through a 3/4" hole.

 

[mrpekinduck]

Anything smaller that 1" in diameter they can and will fit through.

 

[MadChickensVT]

If a hot dog can fit, a weasel can fit.

I'm using 1/2" hardware cloth on most of my coop I'm building. The door will not have any gaps. I'll have latches at top and bottom if need be. I also plan on setting traps.

 

[aprophet]

Quote:
just snap type rat traps work well google weasel box a gallon milk jug works good too it is like Mr Mort keeps saying you wouldn't believe the size hole they can wriggle through