new member

bloodhound · « **on:** December 14, 2008, 17:53 »

Hi all,
My name is Fran

I'm new to this forum and would like some help on a chicken run. I'm getting 4 ex-batts at the end of december I have a small 3ftx5ft run at present attached to the side of the house( I think it's meant for rabbits) but it's been adapted. I would love to have a 8ft x4ft run that i can move around... only worry is mr.fox paying me a visit when I'm out, I've read that it needs to be covered and what gauge mesh should i use 19 or 16? ...also should i put some sort of house/shelter in the run?

I can't wait I'm like a little kid in the sweet shop.

Fantastic forum

Fran

poultrygeist · « **Reply #1 on:** December 14, 2008, 18:06 »

Hi fran. Welcome

Well done for getting ex-batts. Any help you need, we'll try to oblige.

Firstly, 19g is quoted as adequate for fox protection, providing it's a small hole size (25mm or less).

For 4 birds, they will need at least 2 metres x 2 metres in a run to satisfy DEFRA guidelines. In practice they need at least twice and preferably 3 or 4 times this space. If you can let them free range all the better.
They need some shelter in the run from wind, rain and sun in the summer. They also need fresh water and suitable feed at all times.

There are plenty on here who have kept ex-batts who can give you specific advice too.

Rob

bloodhound · « **Reply #2 on:** December 14, 2008, 18:19 »

thanks for the reply rob... i will let the birds out when I'm home but I'll have to have a secure area when I'm not around as where i live backs on to open fields and it's very quiet here.

poultrygeist · « **Reply #3 on:** December 14, 2008, 18:25 »

Sounds like fox country. :shock:

Being ex-batts, they might be a bit timid to start with but I would think they'll appreciate the wide open spaces a bit more. I know they can look very tatty and some don't live for long but if you can give them a taste of freedom and fun then they'll reqard you well.

rob

Vember · « **Reply #4 on:** December 14, 2008, 18:44 »

Hi Fran

Welcome to the Hen House

One very important thing you'll need for when you get your new girls is a camera - can't be without photo's here

Looking forward to seeing them at the end of the month

Sarah

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