Protecting backyard animals from predators
Predators are a significant threat to backyard livestock. Common predators like raccoons, foxes, coyotes, hawks, owls, weasels, and even neighborhood dogs or cats can injure or kill chickens, rabbits, and sometimes even young or small goats. Implementing effective predator-proofing strategies for housing and outdoor areas is essential for animal safety.
- Use 1/2-inch hardware cloth on all openings5
Cover windows, vents, and any small gaps in coops or hutches with 1/2-inch or 1/4-inch hardware cloth (heavy gauge welded wire mesh), securely fastened.
📌 diy4/16/2025, 10:32:54 PM
🛠️ Hardware cloth (1/2" or 1/4"), Heavy-duty staples/staple gun or screws/washers, Wire cutters, Gloves
- Install secure latches on doors and lids5
Use latches that require multiple steps to open, such as hook-and-eye latches combined with a spring-loaded clip or carabiner, or slide bolts with locking mechanisms.
📌 diy/commercial4/16/2025, 10:32:54 PM
🛠️ Predator-proof latches (e.g., slide bolts, carabiners, spring clips), Screws, Drill
- Bury wire mesh (apron) around the perimeter4
Attach hardware cloth or welded wire fencing to the base of the coop/run walls, extending it outwards underground or laying flat on the surface, secured with landscape staples.
📌 diy4/16/2025, 10:32:54 PM
🛠️ Hardware cloth or welded wire, Wire cutters, Shovel or trenching tool, Landscape staples or rocks
- Secure animals inside shelters at night5
Ensure all animals are safely locked inside their secure coop, hutch, or barn from dusk until dawn.
📌 husbandry4/16/2025, 10:32:54 PM
🛠️ Secure shelter, reliable routine or automatic door
- Cover outdoor runs to protect from aerial predators4
Cover chicken or rabbit runs with poultry netting, deer netting, or wire mesh to prevent attacks from hawks and owls.
📌 diy/commercial4/16/2025, 10:32:54 PM
🛠️ Poultry netting, deer netting, or wire mesh, Zip ties or wire, Supports if needed for large runs
- Consider guardian animals (dogs, geese, donkeys)3
For larger areas or flocks/herds (especially goats), consider introducing a livestock guardian dog (LGD) breed or other guardian animals like geese or donkeys.
📌 biological4/16/2025, 10:32:54 PM
🛠️ Guardian animal, Fencing suitable for guardian, Feed/care for guardian
- Use motion-activated lights or deterrents3
Install motion-activated lights or predator deterrent devices around animal housing areas.
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 10:32:54 PM
🛠️ Motion-activated lights, Commercial predator deterrent devices