If you want chickens in an area that is close to a wooded tract of land
then, you need to keep them coyote-and other predator safe. Coyotes are part of
our landscape especially near wooded tracts like parks or wooded tracts of land
and they will take advantage of any easy meal. Free-roaming hens, unsecured
coops, and flimsy fencing are open invitations.
When flocks are missing or only feathers are viewed, the blame often
falls on the coyotes. But the real issue is poor preparation. Hunting coyotes
doesn’t solve the problem it destabilizes populations and increases
reproduction. The solution is responsible design: secure fencing, locked gates,
and smart placement of the chicken coop.
A Proven Design: What Work
My niece lives just south of the city in a heavily wooded area by a park,
where coyotes are frequent visitors. She used to let her chickens roam freely.
No more. Now her flock is protected by a secure, well-designed enclosure that
keeps coyotes out day and night.
Here’s how she built it:
- Fence height: 6-foot heavy-duty chain-link
fencing surrounds the entire run.
- Trench and cement base: She dug a trench around the
perimeter, buried the bottom foot of the fence, and poured concrete to
prevent digging.
- Covered top: Chain-link fencing covers the
top of the run, secured tightly to the side walls.
- Central coop: A sturdy wooden coop sits in the
center, giving hens shelter and security.
- Locked gate: The entry gate has a padlock,
and the ground beneath it is paved with concrete.
- Guardian dog: A Great Pyrenees watches over
the yard, adding another layer of protection.
Her chickens are safe even in a neighborhood close to coyote territory.
Visual Guide: Coyote-Proof Coop Design
Click/open the card below to view the illustrated guide showing each
element of a secure chicken coop from trench to top cover.
Step-by-Step: How to Build It
1. Choose the Location
Place your coop away from wooded tracts and overhanging trees. Coyotes prefer
cover and quiet.
2. Dig a Trench
Dig a 12–18-inch trench around the perimeter of your run. This prevents coyotes
from tunneling under.
3. Pour a Cement Base
Fill the trench with concrete and let it cure. This anchors the fence and
blocks digging.
4. Set the Dimensions
Use 6-foot tall, heavy-gauge galvanized wire or chain-link fencing. Coyotes can
climb lower fences.
5. Add a Secure Gate
Install a sturdy gate with strong hinges and a locking latch. Use concrete
under the gate to block tunneling.
6. Secure the Top
Cover the top with wire fencing or chain-link and attach it tightly to the
sides. Coyotes can climb if the top is open.
7. Lock Up at Night
Even with fencing, hens should be secured inside the coop at dusk.
8. Consider a Guardian Dog
Livestock guardian breeds like Great Pyrenees can deter coyotes and protect
your flock.
Why Coyotes Target Chickens
|
Attractant |
Risk |
|
Free-roaming hens |
Easy prey, especially at night |
|
Open coops |
No barrier to entry |
|
Weak fencing |
Coyotes can dig or climb |
|
Outdoor pet food |
Attracts rodents, which attract
coyotes |
|
Coop near wooded tract |
Increases likelihood of encounters |
Respect and Responsibility
Coyotes are not villains they’re opportunists. If food is easy to access,
they’ll take it. If residents build secure coops, supervise pets, and remove
attractants, coyotes will remain part of the ecosystem without becoming a
threat.
Where I reside, the lesson is clear: if you want chickens, keep them
coyote-safe. Don’t demand that coyotes be hunted because of poor preparation.
Respect the land, respect the wildlife, and take responsibility for the animals
you choose to raise.
