Fortifying Your Chicken Coop Against Fox Intrusions

The Urban Fox Threat: A Growing Concern

Many urban chicken keepers are caught off guard by the presence of foxes, which are increasingly common in city environments. In fact, studies have shown that fox populations are thriving in urban areas due to the abundance of food and shelter opportunities. A report by the University of Brighton in collaboration with the Mammal Society found that foxes are now widespread throughout urban areas in the UK, with an estimated 33 foxes per square kilometer in cities like London.

Securing Mobile Chicken Coops

The Mesh Floor Solution

For mobile chicken coops with an attached run, preventing foxes from digging underneath is paramount. A robust mesh floor, with dimensions that balance security and chicken comfort, is an effective deterrent. A mesh size of 10cm x 15cm is recommended, as it allows chickens to scratch while preventing fox entry. This mesh should be securely attached to the base of the coop for easy relocation.

The Mesh 'Skirt' Alternative

An alternative to the mesh floor is a mesh 'skirt' around the coop's perimeter. This provides more scratching space for the chickens but can make moving the coop more challenging. The choice between a mesh floor and a skirt depends on the keeper's preference and coop design.

Enhancing Fixed Chicken Coops

Reinforcing the Run

For stationary coops, the focus shifts to fortifying the run area. A perimeter of chicken wire with holes no larger than 80mm is essential. The height of the walls should be at least 1.8m to prevent both chickens from escaping and foxes from jumping in.

Underground Defenses

Burying the chicken wire at least 50-60cm below the surface thwarts foxes' digging attempts. Persistent foxes, encountering this barrier repeatedly, will likely abandon their efforts. Alternatively, placing heavy objects like wooden or concrete sleepers on top of the mesh at the fence's base can serve as an additional obstacle.

Choosing the Right Mesh

The durability of the mesh used on the coop's sides is crucial. Avoid lightweight 'aviary' style mesh, as foxes can chew through it. Instead, opt for a mesh that is at least 2.5mm thick, which can withstand fox gnawing and the enthusiastic play of children.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Foxes can dig tunnels up to 15 meters long to access food sources, including chicken coops.
• Urban foxes have adapted to city life, with some even learning to use pedestrian crossings to navigate roads safely.
• A study by the University of Bristol found that urban foxes have smaller brain sizes than their rural counterparts, possibly due to the reduced need for complex foraging strategies.

For more information on protecting your poultry, the RSPCA provides valuable resources on chicken care, and The Poultry Site offers insights into the latest poultry research and management practices.