Raccoon proof chicken coop latch. #4. They can also gain access to the run by digging or Aug 5, 2017 · The door of the run is raccoon proof for sure and the main coop door is a door knob. After I move and install security cameras, I may put one in the coop. I have seen coons on my cameras but they haven't tested the electric wires. Nov 10, 2017 · My coop/ run combination has actual doors, with lockable door knobs, We do lock them, and hang the keys on a nearby post. Cloverdale, IN. Digging Barriers: Using digging barriers around the base to stop predators from digging into the coop. But with a few simple measures, you can beef up the security on your chicken coop and chicken run to protect your flock from May 5, 2010 · Wow. Select a site away from dense bushes or wooded areas where foxes might hide. Predators like raccoons can rip it like tissue paper. At day at the very least a carabiner, but a lock would be the best option if you can do it. You can use this hardware wire to build the same or you can get a traditional tar to create a roof that will provide shade. Automatic Chicken Coop Door - WiFi Enabled, Smart Electric Auto Opener, Sunrise/Sunset Chicken Coop Doors, Chicken Coop Accessories Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant 4. Padlock Latches: For the highest security, some keepers prefer a latch that Jul 25, 2020 · 16. Raccoons will eat any food left out at night, including chicken feed. raccoon proof latchchicken house racoon proof door Yep, whatever locking mechanism you use will need at least 3 steps before it's raccoon proof, if it doesn't need a key. I know raccoons can be very smart and learn to open lots of things. This Are there any natural deterrents or repellents that can help protect chickens from raccoons? Yes, there are several natural deterrents and repellents that can help protect chickens from raccoons: 1. So, it’s best to use 1/2″ or 1/4″ hardware cloth with a fine mesh to keep raccoons out. Consider the Coop's Location. Twist Latches: This type requires a twist to unlock, making it harder for predators to figure out. Even when tipped over, the garbage bin’s lid stays in place. Most raccoon kills are at night, not when the birds are free ranging. I will tell you that, except for one young injured pair, our entire flock of Silkies was Feb 8, 2024 · To prevent raccoons from climbing chicken wire and make it raccoon-proof, consider the following specific measures: Reinforce the wire itself: Upgrade to hardware cloth: This has smaller mesh openings (1/2 inch or less) and thicker gauge wire, making it much more resistant to climbing and chewing. 23. Confining your chickens to an enclosed run and well-built coop is the best way to deter predators. They are much more curious and inventive than other predators. Mar 3, 2023 · Build a really strong coop to start. One is a standard bolt lock that moves over (I put that down low). (Chicken wire should only be used to keep chickens in Aug 12, 2020 · The roof of a wildlife-proof coop should ideally be constructed out of wood, sheet metal, or another sturdy, solid material. Oct 13, 2007 · We are going to embark on building a new coop and raccoon proof run. A lot of time free-ranging flocks will stick fairly near to their coop. Any lock needing more than two steps to open should help keep raccoons away. If your chickens will go out to free range, having a dog will help immensely with predators, or being outside with them. While a basic latch might suffice for some pests, raccoons can often figure out how to slide, twist, or even unhook simple mechanisms. Be sure to dig a trench around the Nov 19, 2022 · Stop raccoons from invading your garbage bins by using a bin strap (Amazon). They’re common, easy to install, and reasonably secure. By their very nature, chickens are easy targets for predators: They're small, rarely take flight, and often huddle together when threatened, making them vulnerable to attack. Jul 9, 2013 · Prevention and treatment Raccoon proofing your coop and run is important. Nov 29, 2022 · Chicken wire is a light-gauge, hexagonally configured wire made to keep chickens in—not keep predators out. 3. Not only are the chickens housed in a coop overnight, the birds are also weak Feb 7, 2013 · Sep 3, 2020. ) I use a fence gate latch and lock it with a carabiner. Yet, this peace can be shattered with a visit from a raccoon, one of nature’s most dexterous and persistent predators. The best course of action is to avoid attracting raccoons to your chicken coop to begin with. To prevent predators from gaining entry, hardware cloth should be buried 12-18” deep and at least 6 inches out in an “L” or “J” shape, and then covered with soil. Coons are nocturnal. The latches should be safety hooks or locking hasps, because raccoons can successfully manipulate and open simple door latches. They can also gain access to the run by digging or Mar 18, 2012 · 3. Alternatively, consider purchasing a raccoon-proof storage container like this to keep raccoons away from your chicken feed. Here are a few tips to help you protect your chickens from raccoons: 1. Sep 26, 2023 · Robust Construction: The best raccoon-proof coops are made of sturdy materials, such as thick wood or metal, which are tough for raccoons to tear apart. Wire Mesh: Cover windows and vents with a strong wire mesh known as hardware cloth. You can use 1-inch fencing for an entire chicken run, but to err on the side of caution, we instead Raccoons, sometimes referred to as “masked bandits”, are known for their dexterity, intelligence, and adaptability. Let the coop air out for a few hours if possible, before allowing the chickens back in. Regular checks and upkeep will help keep the latch in good working condition, enhancing the security of your coop. Signs You May Have A Raccoon In The house. Sep 25, 2023 · Types of Chicken Coop Latches. 181. Their dexterous paws allow them to easily pick up and break open eggs. May 2, 2024 · To deter raccoons from chicken coops, use secure latches and surround the area with fencing. Hardware cloth is a heavier gauge wire than chicken wire and has smaller holes Jan 18, 2024 · To keep your rabbits safe from all threats, upgrade to ¼”–½” hardware cloth to protect the walls, floor, and ceiling. Use Hardware Cloth to Secure Openings. Use a strong padlock openable only with a key or code (even raccoons can't work out numbers!). Use hardware cloth, not chicken wire. Deer Proof your Chicken Coop. This makes them one of the most challenging predators to keep out of your chicken coop. Feb 22, 2024 · Attach fencing to the posts with construction staples. 6. I can open it with one hand while my other hand has a tray of kitchen scraps but even a clever raccoon can't manipulate it with both agile hands. It’s a 4’x8 ‘ coop and run. Mar 6, 2021 · If your coop is really predator proof, with good (raccoon proof) latches, it's fine. I keep a radio on to keep critters on edge. It should keep out all predators except maybe a small weasel. After looking at all the options, it was the only thing I was SURE was raccoon proof. Putting a very small loop in the wire, an inch back off the latch, and attaching a small spring to the loop and again to the front of the latch body (drilling a small hole). I have also been trying to increase ventilation and decrease drafts since we live in Michigan we have significant temp either swings. Secure the coop: Ensure that the chicken coop is well-constructed and securely locked at night. 5. Don’t use chicken wire: it doesn’t deter predators. It has a solid linolium floor with 2 drains set in the floor on either end for easy Nov 26, 2022 · Surprisingly, raccoons are also a common predator of chickens. Embrace the ‘Deep Litter’ Method. You may also place heavy objects, such as a cinderblock, leaning against the door to prevent the little creatures from attacking your chickens. This is stronger than regular chicken wire. This one you add a wire that you pull from inside to open the latch (On mine I just cut a hole in the fence so that i can reach my hand through and flip the latch). Once the posts are set, attach the wire fencing to the posts using staples (u-shaped nails ) and a hammer. This can be done by installing strong latches and locks, covering windows with hardware cloth, burying fencing or coop walls underground, and patching holes and cavities. Since we have hawks, bald eagles, raccoons, and rats the size of poodles in our neighborhood, we need something as secure as we can get it. Mar 23, 2018 - My husband is going to be building a coop for me, and I'm wondering about what kind of latches/fasteners for the doors/windows and such. They seem to be more motivated by killing chickens than they do eating them though. Climbing predators will not be deterred by netting, however. Opt for a coop that features a complex latch system, perhaps even Jul 9, 2013 · Prevention and treatment Raccoon proofing your coop and run is important. Secure the floors of chicken coops and chicken runs. Raccoons prefer to live in areas that have easy access to water and food. I bought a different, pad-lockable latch from Lowes today but unfortunately it won’t Mar 13, 2011 · I use a simple carribiner. May 1, 2020. As well as upgrading the locks, you should also upgrade the fencing as well. The other is the automatic latch the locks when you close the door. Here are a few examples of predator proof latches: During daytime, the chickens should be able to roam outdoor safely. One of the primary attractions for raccoons in residential areas is easy access to food, which often comes from unsecured trash and compost bins. To prevent raccoon scavenging, follow these steps: Use Bins with Locking Lids: Choose trash and compost bins that have locking lids. But I know these latches won’t hold up to a clever raccoon. The raccoon has managed to get in gaps in the hawk netting. Secure Locking Mechanisms: A simple latch won’t do. Apr 24, 2023 · Making sure your chickens have a proper roosting space can help protect them from raccoons. Keep snakes out of your chicken coop . Consider providing a raised roosting bar inside the coop where your chickens can sleep at night. Raccoons can lift traditional pulley style vertical chicken coop doors, but the Autodoor closes Apr 10, 2012 · Here's that latches that came on the coop: Is a raccoon smart enough to twist and slide these?? And, DH built a beautiful protected run for them. Mary. Here are a few important tips for keeping raccoons out of a chicken coop. Vigilant chicken owners often install baby monitors and even security cameras in their chicken coops. I live in a wooded area with tons of raccoons, opossums, etc. From September 2023, Omlet's Walk in Chicken Run comes with a smaller mesh pitch at the lower half of the run to stop dexterous predators like raccoons from reaching in. Also, mice and rats will just waltz right in. 24. Oct 19, 2021 · You can keep raccoons away from the chicken coop by keeping the food out of the backyard, choosing a strong chicken coop that is hard to open, and adding lights and scents around the chickens to scare the raccoons away. I suggest laying down a 1/2" hardware cloth skirt around the coop as well, to stop To protect chickens from raccoons, secure your chicken coop with sturdy, raccoon-proof latches and ensure there are no gaps or weak spots where a raccoon could gain entry. Make sure the wire you’re using for the fencing is strong enough that a raccoon couldn’t pry the wire open. Quote. I started out in an old tool shed, but decided to upgrade to a custom built coop with all the features I came to want after 2 years in the old coop. I built a stand using their plans and added the Hentronix automated door. 1. A predator proof coop and chickens that are securely closed in at night when raccoons are most active are your best lines of defense against these midnight bandits. Typically, they will eat the undigested food in the chickens’ crops, and maybe a little of their meat. See one during the day; get a gun; it's sick most likely. The only one in question would be the latch on the 1/2 screen door. I will keep my fingers crossed that these Iowa raccoons can't figure them out either. Because of this, you should make sure that all fences are at least six feet high and buried two feet deep into the Quickly queue - quirky quails quietly make coos, and loud noises too! Everything Quails! There are many birds called quails but they are not all the same - we have Japanese/coturnix, North American bobwhites (many varieties), Mearns, California, Gambel, etc. Never had an issue. Overturned Waste Bins: Evidence of raccoons scavenging nearby, indicating their presence. Purchase Price. Damage to the Coop: Signs of forced entry like torn wire or broken latches. I figure racoons can usually figure out and manipulate most single latches but when you put in two latches they get a bit stumped. Borrowing the neighbor's dog every night seems impractical, and bringing the chickens into the basement every night seems smelly. Be it fruits, vegetables, fish, or meat, raccoons will eat, kill, and scavenge. It was kind of hard for me to open, but could a raccoon open these? I don't want to find out the hard way that they can open them! Jun 28, 2007 · I've been using clips like the ones in the picture below. Benefits of Marigolds in Your Coop Environment. Cement or stone floor will prevent digging predators from getting inside. 2 x 4 welded wire is more than sufficient. They are available at almost all hardware stores in brass and boat stores have them in bronze. A few people have mentioned spring latches can get covered in slush so they freeze up and are a pain in the winter. It is essential to raccoon-proof your chicken coop and run. Raccoons can easily open simple latches such as a hook and eye latch and basic handles. For maximum security, cover the run with a roof or hardware cloth to protect against flying and climbing predators. Jan 16, 2024 · Creating a Raccoon-Proof Yard Securing Trash and Compost Bins. Currently, it houses 15 8 week olds and they move to a big coop. Feb 17, 2023 · A chicken coop with a strong, predator-resistant latching mechanism on its door is your flock’s best nighttime defense. If they get into a coop, they usually kill a lot of chickens. It's fully insulated, floor, walls, and ceiling. Consider Getting a Rooster. I know raccoons are Jan 14, 2024 · Yes, raccoons do eat chicken eggs. My coop is on the other side of the property, but I keep my food barrels in the Jan 17, 2012 · I have this same hardware with a padlock to latch it. Aug 30, 2014 · Elevate the Chicken Coop. Oct 23, 2021 · There are two ways in which you can place the wire all over the vents and windows to the chicken coop predator-proof. A set of 6 of these cost about 10 dollars, they all use the same key and the set comes with 6 identical keys. Make sure there are no holes in the coop larger than 1/4 inch to keep mice and rats out. Lock all openings including the nest box lid with latches requiring multiple steps to open. I also need to add a latch to the hinged nest box door. Signs include: Tracks: Distinctive raccoon footprints with clear claw imprints. I got a 4-pack at Home Depot that all work off the same key. I won’t show you the photos of the carnage. Raccoons are tricky predators that love Sep 7, 2006 · My friend in raccoon country uses the hardware cloth (he made the "mother earth news" tractor) and has had no problem. Locate the coop near your house so that you can keep close watch and take quick action if trouble occurs. We have buried chicken wire around our run, the run itself has hawk netting over it, I put homemade pepper spray around the perimeter of the run regularly, and the coop itself has more buried chicken wire around the perimeter. Raccoons are skilled climbers, so make sure there How to get a raccoon out of the house. I’ve had raccoons move concrete blocks to get to my chickens. Jan 7, 2022 · Raccoons will try to tear wire mesh off your coop or bend it so they can squeeze through. raccoon proof chicken coop latch 06. Post #2712610. Store Feed Properly. 3 inches) | Materials: 100% fir wood, painted with animal-safe paint | Included Accessories: 4 inside and 2 in the outdoor yard roosts | Features: Predator-proof safety latch on nesting box, pull-out mess metal pan for easy cleaning, heavy-duty galvanized welded Dec 18, 2023 · 1. I used bolt locks and simple locks on each of my exterior nest boxes. Use Automatic Coop Doors. Avoid Leaving Food and Water Out. Hardware cloth laid down on the bottom of the run will keep predators out too. Slide Bolt Latches: These are simple sliding bolts that can be locked in place. Step 4) Maybe you should just call a wildlife removal company. My Coop. Digging should also be a consideration in the run. Setting up a flock this spring. Jan 17, 2015 · Hi All! I'm new to BYC. Use a Guard Dog to Protect the Flock. This fox frequently investigates our coop to see if there is a way in. Ensuring your chicken coop is raccoon-proof is imperative to maintain the safety of your flock. My barn that only houses my two miniature horses has turned into a hotel for raccoons we’ve found out recently. Example, a latch with a carabineer on it that has the twist to unlock feature. Tough to see in the photos. Or a latch with two carabineers on it in opposite directions. I should put a motion light above the door. Here’s a guide to selecting… Identifying raccoon activity around your chicken coops can help you take timely preventive measures. 5 x 33. Regularly rotate the bedding and dirt to keep the coop floor fresh and minimize the buildup of harmful pathogens. Unfortunately, chickens are a considerably easy target for raccoons. For now you can see that my husband put a padlock on the coop door (this is to keep the children out of the coop - they were hanging on the roosts! - until we get the chickens). Flooring and Base. Motion-activated lights or radios can also scare them away. They are opportunistic feeders and won’t pass up the chance to snatch eggs from a chicken coop. Even still, a pen or chicken run is very hard to completely predator proof against night predators. He made doors so I could clean them out and put these latches on. Raccoons have nimble fingers and are very intelligent animals who can easily open coop windows and doors to gain access. That one is just a flip latch. Numerous studies have shown they can open even complex locks ( 3). Chickens are less likely to be attacked by raccoons when they are off the ground. It should have a roof, 4 walls, and a door for the chickens to enter and exit through. Depending on where you live, raccoons, skunks, opossums, foxes, bobcats, bears, fisher cats, and weasels could all possibly be lurking after dark. Nov 10, 2017 · The self-latching gate latches have a hole through which a carabiner can be fit. Raccoons have nimble fingers, capable of unlocking many basic latches. So far I only use one of the keys for the 5 locks I'm useing. Secure Your Coop. Foxes are skilled at opening simple latches, so consider using locks or more robust fasteners that are difficult for them to manipulate. A lesser degree of protection can be obtained by stringing netting on top of the run to deter hawks, owls, etc. Read also: How To Fox-Proof and Raccoon-Resistant Your Chicken Coop. Pros: Easy to assemble, well made, easily cleaned. Instead, use hardware cloth to protect your chickens. The chicken coop should have a roof or else it is at the utmost risk. 4 inches, Run dimensions: 94. I put four of these on the large double doors to my coop, and right now the barrel bolts and swivels are the only thing that stands between the coons and my hens. Using a motion detector light at night is a possibility, although raccoons will quickly become used to and ignore it. An open area provides better visibility and reduces hiding spots for potential predators. I am considering a 5/16ths hole in combination with fishing line. Apr 13, 2011 · 101. Step 3) If you can’t open anything, try to usher it out with a broom. One method of deterring them is to fit raccoon proof latches to your coop's door and window(s). I use the 4 locks to close my "people door," the run door, and both egg hatches. Don't worry about coons reaching through and grabbing your chickens unless you plan on leaving your chickens out at night. Jan 11, 2012 · Here are some pics of my Minnesota coop. Dec 16, 2019 · Any raccoon can reach right in and grab a chicken. The chicken coop doesn’t have to be the only form of shelter. Install Lighting Around Your Chicken Coop. Cons: Price, currently 7-8 weeks to get one, need an XXL version. Both help prevent rusting. You can reduce the chances of having raccoons living near your chickens by not leaving anything out that could attract them, which means that you should move pet Feb 7, 2022 · As mentioned earlier, raccoons are omnivorous, meaning that they will eat everything they can find, just like chickens. Oct 11, 2022 · Make sure any wire mesh on your coop is securely attached because raccoons will try to pry it off or bend it enough that they can squeeze through. 12. Raccoons are clever creatures. May 7, 2018 · But with a few simple measures, you can beef up the security on your chicken coop and chicken run to protect your flock from raccoons, coyotes, hawks, aggressive dogs, and other predators. Make sure your coop is secure and raccoon-proof. (AWESOME company, great customer service, highly recommend). Chickens, with their gentle clucking and serene demeanor, are a joy to many backyard farmers. Apr 18, 2014 · My Coop. Feb 27, 2024 · Dimensions: (Overall: 134. FAQ’s on ‘Protect Coop from Racoons’ Q: Why is it important to protect your coop from raccoon predators? Jan 30, 2021 · Hey friends! We are prepping our big coop for the girls to move into soon. When we first built the coop, we used a staple gun and heavy duty staples. While you're at it, make sure you dig your screening in 12-18" or pile the foundation high with large rocks so Dec 7, 2023 · Regularly inspect all entrances, including doors, windows, and hatches, for secure and fox-proof latches. Jun 26, 2016 · The ideal fence is ¼ to ½” hardware cloth. 5 x 59 x 62. Oct 6, 2023 · Clean and disinfect feeders and waterers, then return them to the coop. Get a Roof. Apr 20, 2014. As long as the chickens can retreat to an area that is solidly covered (wood planks, for example) two raccoons can't work together to make the chickens huddle against the wire. The previous roof was corrugated plastic with chicken wire beneath. Unlike some predators, like large birds of prey or foxes A raccoon will open that in minutes. They’re getting too big in the “baby” coop we have set up in our garage. Keep your grass mowed regularly and Feb 8, 2022 · Using a steel trash can with a locking lid is a great way to keep raccoons out. I’ve been using a Run-Chicken automatic door for nearly 6 years and never had an issue with that either. Raccoons persisted until finding a way into one of our coops and killing all but 2 chickens. No raccoon will figure this out! Mary View attachment 1184523 I don’t really know what more we can do. This solid concrete slab provided the perfect fox-proof base for our chicken coop. Walking around the coop, especially with your dog, can be a big deterrent as well. I have electric wires around my coops and pens. When… Jan 18, 2024 · To keep your rabbits safe from all threats, upgrade to ¼”–½” hardware cloth to protect the walls, floor, and ceiling. Here are some other helpful ways to keep your birds safe…. Cover the Run. Raccoons and other predators can tear right through it like tissue paper. Feb 22, 2013 · I use 2 latches on all my poultry and dog doors. A raccoon or bobcat can easily tear a hole in chicken wire and enter the coop to decimate your flock. Staple down your hardware cloth across vents and windows, then drill strips of wood across the edges. That way I don't have to keep track of the key to the lock. Aug 21, 2019 · Security Checklist: No Chicken Coop Is Impenetrable. Jul 22, 2019 · Raccoons are incredibly intelligent, strong, and determined. May 29, 2019 · Using 1/2-inch on the whole chicken run would be the most predator-proof choice, but because this is just a day run, the 1-inch is fine, less expensive and easier to cut and work with. Don’t leave latches out that a raccoon could open. Choose A Secure Location. I ordered one to raise chicks in. Install Secure Latches on Coop Doors. Drilling the hole out some more in the door frame so the wire doesn't rub. A bungee cord will also further fortify your food storage and make it next to impossible for raccoons to get to. Use a Quality Latch. Step 1) Don’t panic! Step 2) Open all the windows and doors you can safely open and then get out of there. 2021 How to Latches Chicken Coop Door - Organize With Sandy How To Predator Proof The Chicken Coop And Run raccoon proofing chicken fencing – VJP Poultry Dec 1, 2023 · To keep your flock safe from these pesky predators, you need to take some precautions. I have arthritis in my hands. Routine Maintenance to Ensure Latch Effectiveness. It's 16' x 10'. Given enough tries, they can often solve a latch that we may consider too complex for a predator to get past. Contents. This not only keeps the chickens dry when it rains, but also adds extra protection against climbing predators such as raccoons. Make sure that the wire is attached to the chicken coop itself as well. Gravel or Cement: Put down gravel or cement as the coop flooring. Don't use chicken wire: chicken wire is not a barrier to predators. Raccoons can easily break into poorly constructed coops, so invest in a sturdy coop that is difficult for raccoons to Mar 27, 2015 · 2. Sep 29, 2022 · Raccoons are destructive animals. Apr 15, 2024 · Squirrel Proofing Your Chicken Coop. Those mofos can figure out most two-step processes for opening something. While the strong materials and thought out design make it extremely hard for predators to get to your pets, no run is 100% predator proof. Here are photos of the locks for our nesting box access (top) and our coop door (bottom). At night they would have to get past the pen gate and a second on the raised coop door. Oh and Btw, there has been a racoon in my yard near the coop on several nights recently, Knock wood! Last edited: Oct 29, 2007. Is there another option that's raccoon-proof? Or are the spring ones really not an issue in Are there any natural deterrents or repellents that can help protect chickens from raccoons? Yes, there are several natural deterrents and repellents that can help protect chickens from raccoons: 1. Nov 1, 2022 · how to build a raccoon proof door for your chicken house. Click to expand I agree. 10 Effective ways to Keep Snakes Out of Your Coop. Under the cover of darkness and over the course of several hours, predators can manage May 8, 2021 · Start by installing raccoon-proof latches, combination locks, or padlocks on the doors and windows of the chicken coop. Raccoon-proofing the coop is essential to protect chickens. (My coop is mostly metal. Raccoons pose a significant threat to backyard chicken coops, as they are clever predators known for their dexterity and persistence. 5 x 44. 4. Staple the mesh at every 6 inches, securing it tightly to the posts. Also, flooring. Making the property unattractive to raccoons is important. 2 out of 5 stars 455 2 offers from $136. Can raccoons flip them open? We have a 12'x6' area of the run with tin on it and the remainder is covered in netting. Raccoons are exceptional climbers and adequate diggers, so if they want to get to your chickens, they’ll do everything they can. A shelter is basically a more secure form of cover. So if one raccoon finds your chickens, more are often close behind. Build the roof with a slant to minimize damage from water pooling when it rains, and to make May 6, 2020 · Some potential insecurities: There are latches on the two side doors that I don't think are good enough to prevent a raccoon from getting in - I would replace those with more secure ones (combination or key, most likely). It’s smaller than I would prefer but we are going to let them free range when we are around. May 1, 2011. The Omlet Automatic Chicken Coop Door adds an additional layer of safety through its unique horizontal closure on metal gears. Now there is chicken wire, plywood and corrugated plastic on top. Remove all chicken feed and store it in a galvanized steel locking lid can (Amazon). Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure the continued effectiveness of heavy-duty latches on your chicken coop. If the run has no roof or netting, the fence be at least 6 feet tall, which Nighttime. Sep 27, 2023 · Thankfully, 1/4 inch hardware cloth will stop both of them. Now, you’ve known that raccoons do eat chickens, but you can keep your flock safe with the proper knowledge and tools. One key hangs on a lanyard at the coop, the other is on my keychain. Read also: The Importance of Heavy-Duty Latches in Protecting Your Chickens From Raccoons Dec 20, 2009 · The coop now has a new roof, several new layers of hardware cloth where there had previously only been chicken wire, and lots of new nails. Here are potential weak points and how to secure them. Raccoons are skilled climbers, so make sure there . Upgrade The Fencing. If you have the hardware cloth over all of the sides, and blocking all of the holes, the the mice, rats, and raccoons can't get to your chickens. 77 Mar 29, 2022 · The obvious choice for shelter would be the chicken coop. Use hardware cloth instead of chicken wire for enclosures, as raccoons can tear through chicken wire. 2. wt hv qh hz af sl sp mz xs hu