How to Install Bird Netting for Your Chicken Coop: A Step-by-Step Guide

Often, the significance of bird netting for chicken coops is overlooked in dealing with the threat of predatory birds. 

For many backyard bird enthusiasts, chickens are considered part of the family, and ensuring their safety and comfort in the chicken coop is a priority.

This easy-to-understand guide will take you through the steps to install bird netting for your chicken coop. 

This guide is designed to give you the knowledge and confidence you need to shield your chickens from aerial threats.

Let's get started and learn how to protect your chickens.

 

Identifying Bird Predators: Birds of Prey

Before discussing bird netting, knowing the dangers birds of prey can bring to your chickens is important. These flying predators come in many types, each with its own way of hunting and behavior.

Types of Bird Predators

Hawks: Hawks are known for their good eyesight and sharp claws. They often fly down from high places to catch victims, including chickens, that don't see them coming.

 

Owls: Owls hunt at night quietly and sneakily. They can be a threat when chickens are sleeping.

 

Eagles: Eagles are bigger and stronger and can catch larger birds. They are often found in rural areas.

 

Falcons: Falcons are quick and can easily change directions while flying. They can attack very fast and are known for being good hunters.

 

Predator Behavior and Hunting Patterns

Different types of birds of prey behave differently during hunting. Hawks and eagles hunt during the day, while owls hunt at night. Falcons are known for their fast and clever attacks.

Learning these predators' behavior and hunting patterns helps keep your chickens safe. When you know about the dangers, you can take steps to make sure your chickens are safe.

 

Choosing the Right Bird Netting for Your Chicken Coop

Choosing the right bird netting is not just about covering your chicken coop. It's also about forming a strong barrier against predators while ensuring your chickens can move easily and safely. The wrong type of netting can lead to problems, such as your chickens getting stuck, hurt, or stressed.

 

What Should You Consider When Choosing Bird Netting?

Strength: Go for very strong netting. This will ensure that no matter how hard predators try, they cannot tear or break through the net. Look for netting that is made especially to keep birds away.

Mesh Size: The size of the holes in the netting is very important. They should be small enough so birds can't squeeze through. Most of the time, netting with 1-inch or smaller holes stops even small birds like sparrows.

Durability: Bird netting should be strong enough to deal with rain, sunshine, and other weather conditions. Choose netting made from tough materials like polyethylene. It is not only strong but also withstands sunlight. This ensures the netting will last a long time.

Simplicity in setup. You would want your installment process to be as effortless as pie. Opt for a “tangle-free netting” material. The composition and construction style remain when you lay it out on the ground and put it up. This saves you time and stops you from getting annoyed.

 

Preparing for Bird Netting Installation 

Being ready with the right equipment will make the process go smoothly and give you the best results.

 

Tools and Materials Checklist✔️

• Bird Netting: This is the foundation of your project. As discussed above, ensure you have the right options( strength, size, durability, tangle-free).

• Netting Clips or Staples: You will use these to hold the netting in place. Be sure you have enough for your whole chicken coop.

• Support Posts or Frames: Depending on your coop, you might need support posts or frames to make a strong structure for the netting to attach to.

• Measuring Tape: You need this to measure your coop and cut the netting correctly.

• Scissors or Utility Knife: These are important for cutting and shaping the netting as needed while you install it.

• Ladder or Step Stool: You need this to reach the high parts of your coop.

• Work Gloves: Wear gloves to keep your hands safe while you work, especially when using sharp tools or edges.

• Safety Goggles: Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes, especially when working above your head.

• Helper: Another person can be very helpful when you install the netting, especially if you have a big chicken coop.

When you have all the necessary tools and materials, you can start setting up the bird netting for your chicken coop. 

 

 

Measuring Your Chicken Coop

Proper measurements ensure that you have the right amount of netting and that it fits securely over your coop, providing effective protection.

Here’s How To Measure Your Chicken Coop

By Length: Measure the length of your chicken coop from one end to the other. Start from the ground and go up to the highest point of the coop structure. Record this measurement.

By Width: Measure the width of your chicken coop, measuring side to side. Ensure you measure at the widest point of the coop.

By Height: Measure the height of your chicken coop, starting from the ground and going up to the highest point. This measurement is essential, as it helps determine how tall the netting needs to cover the coop adequately.

With your chicken coop measurements, you're ready to cut and install the bird netting. Precise cutting and installation ensure that the netting covers the entire coop properly without leaving gaps and providing maximum protection for your chickens.

Preparing the Area

 

Clearing out any debris, tools, or other objects from around the coop ensures a safe workspace. It significantly reduces the risk of accidents while handling tools and climbing ladders.

Efficient Installation. A clean and clear area provides ample freedom to move around the coop, making it easier to measure, cut the netting, and attach it accurately. It also eliminates potential obstacles that could lead to snags or tears in the netting.

Deterring Predators: You can discourage ground-based predators by cleaning up and removing possible hiding spots near the coop. Keeping a clean and clear area around the coop can deter smaller animals from attempting to breach your chicken coop defenses.

 

Installing Support Structure

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to anchor support posts securely:

 1. Pick posts constructed from hard-wearing material, such as treated wood or metal. Make sure they are tall enough to exceed the height of your chicken coop.

 2. Space the posts evenly around your chicken coop, ensuring that the netting will stretch securely from post to post, leaving minimal gaps.

 3. Excavate holes for each one of the posts. The holes must be deep enough to provide a sturdy foundation for each post - typically, a depth of 2-3 feet is recommended.

 4. Place the posts into the corresponding holes. Use a level to confirm each post is perfectly vertical. Fill the holes with a concrete mix per the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure added stability.

 5.  Allow the concrete to dry and set according to the recommended time provided.

 6. Once the posts are firmly in place, screw on brackets or hooks towards the upper ends. These fixtures will be used to stretch and secure the netting.

Attaching the Bird Netting

Now that you've installed the support structures, it's time to attach the bird netting. 

Be guided by these steps:

 1. Start by unrolling your bird netting near the coop, ensuring it's correctly oriented.

 2. Carefully lay it over your installed support posts, covering the coop entirely.

 3. Once you've draped the netting, you must secure it to the posts. Zip ties are perfect for this job - they ensure the netting is fastened tightly, preventing any potential sagging or gaps.

 

 4. As you go along the perimeter of the coop, make sure to overlap any seams and secure them with additional zip ties.

 5. Lastly, trim any excess netting to maintain a clean look. You may also consider clips specially designed for attaching the net to posts.

 

Securing the Edges

So, how can you ensure the perimeter safety? Here are some easy ways:

Using Staples: You can use garden staples. Just push them into the ground at the edge of the net. Make sure you put them close together.

Using Heavy Objects: You can use heavy things like bricks or rocks. Just place these at the base of the net to keep it down. This way is good if the ground is not even or is very loose.

Digging a Small Ditch: This is a very strong way to secure the net. You can dig a small trench (a ditch) around the sides of the coop. Then, put the net into the ditch and cover it with dirt. This will hold the net in place.

 

Inspecting and Testing the Netting

Here's what you do when checking the net:

Look for Holes or Tears:

1. Look over the whole net.
2. Check if there are any holes, tears, or loose threads.
3. Pay more attention to corners and edges - these places may wear out faster.

Test the Strength: To check the strength of the net, give gentle pushes to different parts of the net. The net should stay where it is and shouldn't tear. If the net seems weak or damaged, fix it or get a new one.

Verify Secure Attachment: Look at all the zip ties, clips, or other fasteners. Check they're still tying the net to the posts and the coop.

Get Rid of Dirt: Remove any leaves, twigs, or other stuff falling on the net. They can make the net heavy or create spots where birds can get in.

 

Maintenance Tips 

Regular maintenance helps preserve the integrity of the netting and provides long-lasting security for your chicken flock.

 

Tips for Keeping the Netting in Good Condition

Scheduled Inspections: Set a schedule for regular inspections, ideally every month. This proactive approach allows you to identify and address issues early.

Cleaning: From time to time, clean the net. Take off any dirt, rubbish, or bird poop. A clean net works better at stopping birds.

Prompt Repairs: If you see any holes or damage when checking, fix them quickly. You can use special tape to patch small holes. If the damage is big, replace that part of the net.

Trim Overgrowth: If plants are near the coop, cut them back regularly. This stops them from rubbing on the net and making tears. It also helps keep the net straight.

Monitor Support Structures: Check that the posts and fasteners that hold the net are in good condition. If any parts are broken or rusty, replace them right away.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When putting up the bird net around your chicken coop, there are some common mistakes you should avoid. By knowing these mistakes and how to avoid them, you can put up the net the right way.

Bad Support Structures

Mistake: Using weak posts or not enough of them can make the net sag, leaving gaps for birds to get through.

Avoidance: Space strong posts out so the net is tight and strong.

 

Wrong Measurements

Mistake: Measuring wrong can make the net too small or too big, leaving spots where birds can get through.

Avoidance: Measure the coop's length, width, and height accurately. The net must fit well and cover everything.

 

Not Making Edges Strong

Mistake: Forgetting to make the edges of the net strong can let birds find gaps.

Avoidance: Use staples or dig the edges into the ground for heavy items. This keeps the net strong and in place.

 

Weak Ties

Mistake: Using weak zip ties can make them break over time. This lowers the strength of the net.

Avoidance: Choose good quality zip ties or use special clips made for bird netting. This keeps the net tied strongly.

 

Forgetting to Check the Net

Mistake: Not checking the net regularly can result in unnoticed damage.

Avoidance: Make a plan to occasionally check, clean, and repair the net.

 

Not Thinking about the Environment

Mistake: Not considering the weather or vegetation near the net can make it wear out early.

Avoidance: Make the net resist the weather if needed, and trim plants often to stop them from touching the net.

 

By avoiding these mistakes, you'll put up the bird net in the best way.

 

How To DIY Repair Holes for Bird Netting

Materials Needed:

• Repair tape specifically for bird netting
• A pair of scissors
• Needle and thread
• Soap and water

Steps for Repair:

1. Scan the netting for any small rips or holes.

 2. Cleanse the damaged area around the hole using soap and water to remove dirt.

 3. Allow the cleaned area to dry completely. The repair tape or stitches will adhere better to a clean, dry surface.

 4. Cut a slightly larger piece than the hole size from either a new piece of netting or the repair tape.

 

If you're using netting for repairing:

 1. Fold the newly cut netting over and around the hole and hold it in place securely with the needle and thread. Use a whip stitch for sewing.

 2. Keep the tightness of the stitches moderate to prevent damaging the netting. Choose a strong thread that matches the color of the netting for a tidy repair.

 3. Remove any netting excess to the patch.

 

If you're opting for repair tape:

1.Apply the tape over the hole or tear, ensuring it covers the entire faulty part.

 2. Apply firm pressure over the tape to ensure it sticks well to the netting.

 3. Inspect the repaired area closely to ensure no mishaps, gaps, or loose ends.

 

Some More Advice:

• If the hole is too big, don’t hesitate to use more than one piece of netting or repair tape.

• A color-matching, heavy-duty thread would give a cleaner finish to the repair job.

• While sewing, handle the netting gently to avoid causing any further damage.

 

When to Fix It Yourself or Get Help

You can fix small problems yourself if you can reach and manage them. However, if there's a lot of damage, worn-out parts, or a problem with the posts or fasteners, it's better to get professional help. They can check it and fix or replace what's needed.

 

Benefits of Using Bird Netting

Installing bird netting around your chicken coop offers numerous advantages to your chicken flock's overall well-being and safety.

Protects From Predators

Bird netting is a strong barrier against birds that might harm your chickens, such as hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons. It keeps these birds away, keeping your chickens safe.

Saves Money

Compared to other ways of keeping out predators, like building a covered coop or using an electric fence, bird netting costs less. It gives strong protection without needing much work or dollars spent on maintenance.

Safe Environment

Bird netting allows your chickens to experience a more open, natural setting while being safe. They can move around without feeling trapped, leading to happier, healthier birds.

 Preserves Natural Habitat

Unlike harsher ways of keeping out predators, bird netting does not harm the natural living space of local birds. It doesn't damage or upset the ecosystem, making it a sustainable choice.

 Minimal Maintenance

Once it's installed correctly and checked often, bird netting doesn't need a lot of maintenance. You must look for and fix small issues to keep it working well.

 Peace of Mind

Knowing that your chickens are protected by bird netting provides peace of mind for poultry owners. You can rest easy, knowing your flock is safe from threats.

 

Final Word

Bird netting isn't just an extra thing - it's an important guard against birds that could harm your chickens.

 By making a physical barrier, bird netting lets your chickens wander and enjoy themselves safely, keeping them safe from threats from the sky.

 It's a way to provide protection that's good value, kind to the earth, demands little work and gives you peace of mind.

 

[If you're looking for a high-quality netting option, we suggest our tangle-free bird netting as a reliable choice. It combines toughness with easy handling, providing ultimate protection without worrying about knots or tangles. ]

However, as we have discussed, it's important to bear in mind that no product replaces the necessity of regular checks and necessary maintenance. That said, making a wise choice at the beginning eases the journey. After all, a strong beginning is half the job done!

Here's to happy, hearty, and healthy chickens!