Can Poultry Netting Prevent Predators from Accessing Hens?

Choosing the Right Poultry Netting

When selecting poultry netting to protect your hens, look for a mesh size of 1 inch or less. This will prevent predators such as raccoons, opossums, and weasels from reaching your birds. The netting should also be made of durable materials that can withstand the elements and any attempts by predators to chew or claw through it. Consider using a netting that is specifically designed for poultry and is treated with a predator-resistant coating.

Installing and Securing the Netting

To effectively prevent predators from accessing your hens, the netting must be securely installed and anchored to the ground. Use sturdy posts or fence posts to support the netting and ensure that it is at least 3 feet off the ground to prevent smaller predators such as foxes and coyotes from jumping under it. Bury the netting 12 inches deep around the perimeter to prevent burrowing predators like raccoons and opossums from digging underneath. Finally, consider adding hardware cloth or chicken wire around the perimeter of the enclosure to prevent predators from getting to your hens from underneath.

Additional Predator Control Measures

While poultry netting can be an effective deterrent, it is not enough to completely prevent predators from accessing your hens. Consider combining it with other forms of predator control such as guard animals, electric fencing, or motion-activated sprinklers. Additionally, consider the size and layout of your enclosure, as predators may be able to access your hens if the enclosure is too small or has gaps in it.