Design
After a brief survey of possible designs I settled on a 4' x 4' x 10' frame of ½" EMT secured by elbows and bolted corner braces. I used copious black zip ties to attach panels of 2" x 4" weldmesh fencing. The roost consisted of a length of 2" x 3" sheltered inside a recycled plastic barrel. The ladder proved unnecessary: the hens ignored it and happily jumped up to the roost. A tarpaulin completed the defences against the elements and provided a measure of camouflage. The total budget was well under $100.
Update
After some months of use some drawbacks have become apparent. The tractor is light enough that it can be moved by a single person — an easy way is to prop a kid's scooter under each end. But it can blow away in a strong wind and requires tethering (I used tent pegs). A more serious problem was its defences against predators. A 6" apron of weldmesh around the inner circumference proved sufficient to prevent foxes from digging underneath. Sadly I had not reckoned on raccoons being able to reach inside the cage and attack the hens directly. Reinforcing the mesh walls with ½" hardware cloth might have prevented the loss of two hens.
More recently, the cage was demolished by snow! The structure just could not withstand the weight, and I will need to replace the frame. In future I will take off the tarpaulin whenever snow is forecast.
8 comments:
Do you anchor it in any way? I think it would blow over pretty easily around here (Kansas).
I put mine on a 4X4 frame, heavy enough it doesn't move easily, but won't blow around either.
I use my riding lawn mower to move it around the yard.
Tent pegs. I remembered after the first puff of wind blew the cage upside down.
This is a very impressive subject. Thank you for always. I have been reading your article interestingly. If possible, please visit my website to read my posts and leave comments. Have a nice day! 토토
Recently, I have started to read a lot of unique articles on different sites, and I am enjoying that a lot. Although, I must tell you that I still like the articles here a lot. They are also unique in their own way 메이저사이트
This post is really astounding one!
I was delighted to read this, very much useful.
SmokedProjects might focus on creative or project-driven discussions, but if you're into yellowstone apparel, it’s a great way to blend style with your work environment. The rugged, Western-inspired designs from *Yellowstone* could be perfect for those working on outdoor or adventurous projects, making a statement while staying comfortable.
A **lightweight chicken tractor** is a portable, moveable chicken coop designed to allow chickens to forage for food while providing a safe, enclosed space. Typically made of lightweight materials like wood, wire mesh, and sometimes PVC, these tractors are easy to move around your yard or garden. They help with pest control and fertilization as chickens scratch the ground and eat weeds, insects, and small plants, all while fertilizing the soil with their droppings.
For more ideas on sustainable farming and homesteading, visit the best vape shop online.
Post a Comment