Chicken Enclosure: A safe run for hens with protection from above

Chicken Enclosure: A run protected on every side

A chicken enclosure combines fresh air with safety. Your hens scratch, peck and sunbathe while wire mesh and a cover protect them from foxes, martens and hawks. With us you will find walk-in runs in different shapes and sizes, from an octagonal run with netting to a large XL enclosure with cover that also works as a dog kennel. An anti-dig kit seals the gap at ground level, so nothing can squeeze underneath.

Protection from above and below

Birds of prey such as goshawks and buzzards like to target young or small chickens. An enclosure with a cover or netting takes that opportunity away. At ground level, foxes and martens like to dig under the fence. An anti-dig barrier or a strip of wire mesh laid flat around the edge or buried in the soil prevents this. That way your hens can stay outside unsupervised during the day. Check the mesh and the fixings now and then, especially after storms, so that no gaps appear over time.

Size and location

The more space you give your hens, the more settled they are. The Kerbl Space walk-in run at 243 x 127 x 184 cm is tall enough for you to walk inside comfortably. The 220 cm walk-in run can be enlarged with an extension. Place the enclosure right next to the coop so the birds can get out in the morning and back in safely at night. A shaded section protects against heat in summer, and a covered corner gives shelter from rain. Inside the run, a dust bath helps your hens keep their feathers in good condition.

Frequently asked questions

How big should a chicken enclosure be?
For a permanently fenced run, several square metres per hen is a good guide so the ground does not turn bare. If space is tight, moving the enclosure regularly helps.

Does a chicken run need a roof?
Where goshawks or buzzards are about, a cover is strongly recommended. It also keeps wild birds out, which can bring in diseases such as avian influenza.

Can chickens and rabbits share an enclosure?
A shared run is possible if there is enough space and separate places to retreat. Keep feed and sleeping areas apart, as the two species have different needs.