Build a Predator-Proof Chicken Coop: Step-by-Step
🛡️ PREDATOR DEFENSE

PREDATOR PROOF
CHICKEN COOP
BLUEPRINT

Stop Raccoons, Weasels, Foxes & Aerial Hawks

⚡ DIRECT PET ANSWER
Install 1/2-inch 19-gauge galvanized welded hardware cloth across all coop openings instead of flimsy chicken wire. Extend a 12-to-18 inch predator apron flat on the ground buried beneath gravel to thwart digging predators like raccoons, foxes, and weasels.
Published by HowdyFox
DEFENSE 01 • WIRE

NEVER USE CHICKEN
HEXAGONAL WIRE

USE 1/2 IN 19-GAUGE HARDWARE
CLOTH MESH

Chicken wire only keeps chickens in—raccoons easily rip it apart, and weasels slip right through standard 1-inch holes.

💡 ACTION: Install 1/2-inch hot-dipped galvanized hardware cloth everywhere.
Published by Howdy Fox
DEFENSE 02 • APRON

18-INCH ANTI-DIG
PREDATOR APRON

18 INCHES BURIED OUTWARD ON
SOIL PERIMETER

Canines and foxes dig immediately against coop walls. Extending hardware cloth flat 18 inches outward blocks digging paws.

💡 ACTION: Pin hardware cloth apron with sod staples; grass grows through it.
Published by Howdy Fox
DEFENSE 03 • LATCHES

TWO-STEP LOCKS
BLOCK RACCOONS

LOCKS RACCOONS SOLVE
SIMPLE HOOK & EYE

Raccoons possess dexterous hand-like paws capable of sliding open barrel bolts and lifting hooks.

💡 ACTION: Secure every coop door with carabiner clips or padlock hasps.
Published by Howdy Fox
DEFENSE 04 • OVERHEAD

COVER RUN ROOF
AGAINST HAWKS & OWLS

100% TOP NETTING OR
CORRUGATED TIN

Red-tailed hawks dive into open pens during midday, and Great Horned Owls pluck roosting birds off perches at twilight.

💡 ACTION: Enclose run tops with heavy-gauge netting or clear polycarbonate roof.
Published by Howdy Fox
AUTOMATION

LIGHT-SENSING AUTO
POP-DOOR ACCESS

ZERO FORGOTTEN DOORS
AT DUSK

90% of predator attacks happen because owners arrive home after dark. Heavy motorized doors close automatically at sunset.

💡 ACTION: Install an automated solar-powered chicken coop door.
Published by Howdy Fox