Run extension & stopping free range

[Lapwom]

Hi! We live in a nice suburban area in CT and have 4 chickens. We have a small coop and a 6’ W x 12’ L x 7’ H roof-covered run attached to coop (with predator apron, dust bath box, swing, feed, water, treat block, etc). We let our chickens out to free range a couple hours a day but due to poop, and because we have little kids and a new puppy coming this summer, I’d like to keep them contained, but think they need more space than this run gives them, right? We don’t have a big farm so don’t want to build an elaborate and unattractive run but also happy to have them free range around some of our evergreens, compost pile. Does anyone have a suggestion for creating a run extension without a ton of material or effort that looks nice?! It would only be used for part of the daytime. I want happy chickens but don’t think we have the energy to do another predator apron!! PS photo is from when we first built this—inside doesn’t have grass anymore and has all the above mentioned stuff!)

 

[rosemarythyme]

You technically have enough space but if the birds are used to be let out they may protest being confined.

For just containing chickens, it can be as simple as chicken wire or snow fencing, but since you said the looks are a concern, maybe fencing panels like these: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Vigoro-...ack-Metal-Garden-Fence-Panel-860411/302617753 would work? They're easy to place and move around and look better than chicken wire IMO (I use them to keep the dogs from running through the passthrough behind the house), though I don't know how flighty your birds are since they could go over if so inclined.

 

[paintedChix]

The other option would be a tractor, that you can contain/protect them in while providing water & shade. Move them into it in the morning, move it where you want it for day, put back into their run in the afternoon so that they go to bed on thier own.

Many styles, sizes, materials.

Edit to add - Another way to do an extension would be electrified poultry net. More producers now, so different looks, colors & heights. Be aware - I've had neighbors' dogs jump a 48" one & decimate a 15 bird flock & sometimes I also had hens decide to go over the fence ... But you can move your enclosure around & when have people get together, can leave the girls in their coop run & have either the tractor or netting stored out of the way - no eyesore.

 

[StinkyAcres]

I love using electric netting. We use three different kinds and Premier1's Chicken Net is my favorite so far (https://www.premier1supplies.com/poultry/fencing.php?fence_id=148). It's relatively inexpensive, so easy to move wherever I want, and can be taken down for the winter. I don't electrify mine but it's nice having that option in case I decide to in the future. The smaller gaps keep in adult standard chickens and ducks just fine. However, it won't keep out dogs and other predators, especially if it's not electrified.

I also have a couple permanent pens fenced in welded wire fencing on t-posts. All the pens are connected as you can see here.

 

[paintedChix]

I love using electric netting. We use three different kinds and Premier1's Chicken Net is my favorite so far (https://www.premier1supplies.com/poultry/fencing.php?fence_id=148). It's relatively inexpensive, so easy to move wherever I want, and can be taken down for the winter. I don't electrify mine but it's nice having that option in case I decide to in the future. The smaller gaps keep in adult standard chickens and ducks just fine.

I also have a couple permanent pens fenced in welded wire fencing on t-posts. All the pens are connected as you can see here.

View attachment 3874179

Your place is BEAUTIFUL!

 

[StinkyAcres]

Your place is BEAUTIFUL!

Thank you! Could be nicer if I could find a way to trim the grass under the fences! haha

 

[paintedChix]

Thank you! Could be nicer if I could find a way to trim the grass under the fences! haha

Know that feeling well.

 

[Redhot419]

I love using electric netting. We use three different kinds and Premier1's Chicken Net is my favorite so far (https://www.premier1supplies.com/poultry/fencing.php?fence_id=148). It's relatively inexpensive, so easy to move wherever I want, and can be taken down for the winter. I don't electrify mine but it's nice having that option in case I decide to in the future. The smaller gaps keep in adult standard chickens and ducks just fine. However, it won't keep out dogs and other predators, especially if it's not electrified.

I also have a couple permanent pens fenced in welded wire fencing on t-posts. All the pens are connected as you can see here.

View attachment 3874179

Lucky hens, nice set up. Thanks for the tips & pics!!!

 

[Penpal]

I find the electric netting keeps dogs out. Most dogs won't jump over it. It keeps raccoons out, which are the more dangerous animals out here.