Batten Down the Coop: Fall Predator-Proofing Tips for Your Flock

As the sun dips lower on the horizon and the crisp bite of autumn settles in, a quiet shift happens around the chicken yard. The days grow shorter, the nights colder—and out beyond the fence line, hungry eyes begin to watch.

Predators that spent the summer foraging in the wild now grow desperate as natural food sources disappear. This is the season when your coop’s defenses will be tested the hardest. Raccoons, foxes, owls, and even the occasional bear won’t hesitate to exploit the smallest weakness. The good news? With a bit of forethought and a seasonal check-up, your flock can stay safe and snug all winter long.

Two Fronts: The Coop and the Run

When predator-proofing your setup, think in two zones:

• The chicken run, where your birds spend their days scratching and sunbathing
• The coop, their secure sleeping quarters at night

Daytime predators—hawks, stray dogs, and sneaky raccoons—target the run. But after dark, your coop must be absolutely impenetrable.

Securing the Chicken Run

Your run doesn’t just need a fence—it needs a multi-angle defense system that protects from above, below, and ground level.

Stop the Diggers

Coyotes, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs love to dig. The best defense? Extend your fencing underground. If you're building a six-foot fence, purchase seven feet of material so you can bury or flare out the bottom foot.

A flared-out skirt covered with bricks or gravel deters diggers and helps control weeds, making electric fence maintenance easier too.

Pro Tip: Use galvanized steel fencing with a PVC coating (1" x 1")—it’s rust-resistant and built for long-term use.

Reinforce Against Bruisers

Raccoons are experts at pulling apart weak seams, and large predators like bears can tear down flimsy runs.

• Double up fencing at vulnerable spots, especially corners.
• Use metal hog rings instead of zip ties to fasten panels.
• For added protection, run two strands of electric fence: one low (6") and one at 3 feet high.

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Guard Against Aerial Attacks

Hawks and owls can strike quickly. A net secured over your run will block most aerial predators. It doesn’t need to be heavy-duty—flexible poultry netting is usually enough.

Secure it with zip ties or hog rings every few feet.

Fortifying the Coop

When the sun goes down, your chickens rely on you to protect them. Your coop needs to function like a fortress. Every opening counts.

Automatic Doors for Peace of Mind

Consider installing an automatic coop door that opens at dawn and closes at dusk. Many models operate on timers or light sensors—just remember to adjust the settings as the days shorten in fall.

It’s one less thing to worry about as the weather turns cold.

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Check Every Entry Point

Inspect your pop door and main access door for gaps, chew marks, or signs of forced entry. Raccoons can manipulate simple latches, so make sure your locks are predator-proof.

Reinforce any soft wood or warped panels with hardware or steel sheeting.

Secure Windows and Vents

Ventilation is vital, but it’s also a common weak point. Cover all openings with ¼" or ½" hardware cloth, NOT chicken wire. Chicken wire keeps chickens in, but it won’t keep predators out.

Use fencing staples or washers and screws for a tight, tamper-proof fit.

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Don’t Forget the Floor

Rotting floorboards or gaps can invite burrowing predators or rodents. Ideally, pour a concrete floor for maximum protection. If that’s not feasible, elevate your coop 12–18 inches off the ground to discourage tunneling.

Inspect flooring for signs of gnawing or moisture damage and repair immediately.

Final Fall Check

A quick fall inspection and a few reinforcements could mean the difference between a peaceful winter and a devastating midnight predator raid.

• Walk your perimeter
• Check every latch and seam
• Look at your setup from a predator’s perspective
• Patch, lock, and double-check

Your Fall Predator-Proofing Checklist

• Inspect doors, latches, and locks
• Check for signs of digging or tunneling
• Reinforce weak fence points and corners
• Add electric fencing or dig barriers
• Install or check automatic coop doors
• Secure all vents and windows with hardware cloth
• Walk your run and coop with fresh eyes

Keep Your Flock Safe This Season

With a little prep and the right materials, you can enjoy autumn knowing your chickens are safe, secure, and ready for winter.

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Happy chicken keeping!