I lost six hens in a single night to a raccoon that chewed right through standard chicken wire. That experience taught me what every backyard flock keeper eventually learns: the run matters just as much as the coop. Finding the best chicken runs means looking past the marketing photos and focusing on frame thickness, wire strength, and real-world predator resistance.
Our team spent three months comparing metal-framed runs from every major brand on the market. We looked at how each one held up against digging predators, heavy winds, summer sun, and the daily wear of a messy flock. We also dug through thousands of buyer reviews to find out what actually fails and what lasts.
What we found surprised us. The most expensive run was not the best, and the cheapest was not the worst. The deciding factors came down to steel pipe thickness, wire mesh quality, door lock design, and how well the roof handled weather. Below you will find our top eight picks, a detailed buying guide, predator-proofing tips straight from experienced keepers, and answers to the questions buyers ask most.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Chicken Runs for Backyard Flocks (August 2026)
If you want the short version before diving into the full reviews, here are the three runs that stood above the rest. These picks cover the spectrum from budget-friendly to heavy-duty large flock options.
CAMMOO 13.1ft Walk-In Chicken Run
- 0.8mm thick tubes
- Double-lock door
- Tough PP mesh
- All-weather PE roof
HITTITE 19ft Extra Large Chicken Coop
- Galvanized 0.8mm frame
- Lockable metal latch
- UV-resistant cover
- PVC coated mesh
NUGRIART 83 inch Metal Chicken Coop
- Epoxy coated frame
- Gravity lock door
- PE UV-resistant cover
- 10-min assembly
Best Chicken Runs in 2026
Here is a side-by-side look at all eight chicken runs we reviewed. Use this comparison table to scan dimensions, standout features, and ratings before reading the full breakdown of each model.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| CAMMOO 13.1ft Walk-In Run |
|
Check Latest Price |
| HITTITE 19ft Large Chicken Coop |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Xbrigh 20x10 FT Poultry Run |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Betterhood VEVOR 9.8x13.1ft Run |
|
Check Latest Price |
 CHIKENCOOP 9.8x6.5ft Walk-In Run |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HEYTOWN Large Metal Chicken Coop |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sino Luban Large Metal Coop Run |
|
Check Latest Price |
| NUGRIART 83in Metal Chicken Coop |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. CAMMOO 13.1ft Walk-In Chicken Run – Best Overall Predator Security
CAMMOO Metal Chicken Coop, 13.1x9.8x6.6ft Chicken Run for Yard with Cover
- Sturdy 0.8mm thick tube frame
- Tough PP mesh survives 1000+ bends
- Double-lock door for extra security
- Pre-sorted labeled parts for easy build
- All-weather PE roof cover
- Mesh requires cutting to size
- Needs extra reinforcement for full predator proofing
The CAMMOO run was the model I kept coming back to during testing. The 0.8mm thick steel tubes give this frame a rigidity that thinner-walled runs simply do not have. When I leaned my full weight against a corner pole, it barely flexed. That structural confidence matters when you live in an area with wind storms or heavy snow loads.
What sets the CAMMOO apart is the double-lock door. Most runs in this price range use a single latch that a determined raccoon can defeat. The double-lock system adds a second point of failure for any predator trying to work the door open. Combined with the stainless steel ties on the main frame, this run feels built by people who actually keep chickens.
The PP mesh is a step up from standard chicken wire. CAMMOO claims it survives 1000+ bends at temperatures ranging from -4 to 176 degrees Fahrenheit. I could not stress-test those extremes, but the mesh felt noticeably stiffer and more tear-resistant than the PVC-coated hexagonal wire on cheaper models. You will need to cut it to size during assembly, so have good wire snips ready.
Assembly took about 90 minutes with two people. CAMMOO pre-sorts and labels every part, and they use a single screw type throughout, which eliminates the usual hunt for the right hardware. The included tools are basic but functional. The all-weather PE roof handled a summer downpour during our test period with no pooling or leakage.
Who Should Buy the CAMMOO Run
This is the run I recommend for keepers with 10 to 20 chickens who want a balance of security, size, and build quality without stepping into premium pricing. The double-lock door and thick tubing make it strong enough for areas with raccoons, foxes, and neighborhood dogs. If you want one run that does everything well, this is the one.
Who Should Skip It
If you deal with digging predators like coyotes or persistent foxes, you will still need to add a hardware cloth skirt around the base. The mesh is tougher than standard chicken wire but not a true hardware cloth replacement. Keepers in extreme snow zones should also plan to clear the roof, as the PE cover is not rated for heavy snow accumulation.
2. HITTITE 19ft Extra Large Metal Chicken Coop – Best Value for Large Flocks
- Massive 19-foot length for large flocks
- Galvanized rust-resistant frame
- Lockable door with metal latch
- UV and waterproof PE tarp cover
- Straightforward two-person assembly
- Mesh needs hardware cloth upgrade for predators
- Cover should be removed in heavy snow
The HITTITE 19-foot run gives you serious square footage at a price that undercuts similarly sized competition. With nearly 190 square feet of enclosed space, this run comfortably houses a flock of 20-plus chickens. Our team set this one up in a pasture setting and immediately appreciated the walk-in height of 6.56 feet.
The galvanized steel frame uses 0.8mm thick pipes, which matches the CAMMOO for rigidity. The galvanized coating is a real advantage over painted frames because it resists rust at scratches and joint connections where paint flakes off. After three months outdoors with rain exposure, the frame showed zero corrosion.
The PVC-coated hexagonal wire mesh is the standard for this price tier. It contains chickens well and stops aerial predators, but it will not stop a determined raccoon or dog. Nearly every experienced reviewer on this product recommends adding hardware cloth along the bottom two feet. Budget for that upgrade when you compare prices.
The PE tarp cover held up well through sun and rain during our test. However, HITTITE explicitly states you should remove it in heavy snow conditions. If you live in a snowy climate, plan to either reinforce the roof structure or take the cover down before winter storms. The lockable door with a metal latch is a solid design that resists raccoon tampering better than spring latches.
Ideal Flock Size and Setup
The HITTITE 19-footer is ideal for keepers running 15 to 25 chickens who want room for the flock to spread out. The length also allows you to partition the run if you need to separate a broody hen or integrate new birds. At 113 pounds, this is a two-person build that takes about two hours start to finish.
Predator Upgrades to Plan For
Count on spending extra on hardware cloth for the lower walls and a dig skirt for the perimeter. The included mesh is fine for the upper sections where only birds of prey are a threat. For ground-level predator defense, wrap the bottom 24 inches in half-inch hardware cloth and secure it with galvanized screws and washers.
3. Xbrigh 20×10 FT Walk-In Poultry Run – Best for Maximum Space
- Huge 200 square feet of space
- Heavy-duty rustproof steel construction
- 210D Oxford fabric cover resists tearing
- Bolt assembly for solid connections
- Responsive customer service
- Needs extra reinforcement in harsh weather
- Heavy and requires two or more people to build
The Xbrigh 20×10 run is the largest model in our roundup and it ranks at number 22 in Poultry Habitat Supplies on Amazon, which tells you how popular this size has become. With 200 square feet of space, you can house 25 to 30 chickens comfortably. This is the run I would choose for a serious backyard setup or a small homestead operation.
The rustproof steel frame uses an anti-corrosion coating that held up well during our three-month outdoor test. The bolted assembly method is a notable upgrade from the push-in connector style used on cheaper runs. Bolts create rigid joints that do not loosen over time the way friction-fit connections can.
The 210D Oxford fabric cover is a meaningful step up from the PE tarps used on most runs in this guide. Oxford fabric resists tearing, handles UV exposure better, and does not become brittle in cold weather the way PE material can. After three months of direct sun, the cover showed no fading or cracking.
Assembly requires at least two people and ideally three for a structure this size. Plan for a full afternoon. The instructions are clear, but the sheer number of components means you want everything organized before you start. Xbrigh offers 24-hour customer service response, which several buyers praised for sending replacement parts quickly.
Best Use Cases for a 20-Foot Run
This size run works best for keepers with established flocks of 20 or more birds, or anyone who wants to rotate chickens through different sections. The width of 10 feet gives you room to add a dust bath area, hanging feeders, and enrichment items without crowding the birds. It is also tall enough at nearly 77 inches for comfortable walk-in access.
Weather Reinforcement Needs
Despite the sturdy frame, this run will need extra bracing in areas with high winds or heavy snow. Several buyers added cross-bracing at the roof peaks and secured the frame to ground posts driven two feet deep. If you live in tornado or hurricane zones, factor in the cost of additional bracing materials.
4. Betterhood VEVOR 9.8×13.1ft Chicken Run – Best Seller with Proven Track Record
- Triangular supports add structural strength
- 240D Oxford cover is thick and durable
- Pro installation video included
- Versatile for chickens rabbits and ducks
- Best seller rank number 18 in category
- Included chicken wire is flimsy
- Door latch needs modification
- Roof sags without center support
The Betterhood VEVOR run ranks at number 18 in Poultry Habitat Supplies with 1,500 reviews, making it one of the most purchased runs on the market. That popularity comes from a combination of reasonable sizing, the triangular support design, and the thick 240D Oxford cover that outclasses the PE tarps on cheaper models.
The triangular steel supports are the standout structural feature. They distribute weight across the frame more evenly than standard rectangular bracing, which helps with both wind resistance and snow load. During our testing, the frame felt solid even in gusty conditions.
The included wire mesh is the main weakness. Multiple buyers and our own inspection confirmed that the chicken wire is thin enough to be called flimsy. For a run at this price point, upgrading to hardware cloth is not optional if you have any predator pressure. Plan to replace the bottom 24 to 36 inches with half-inch hardware cloth secured with screws and washers.
The 240D Oxford cover is genuinely impressive. It is thicker than the 210D fabric on the Xbrigh and far more durable than any PE tarp. The cover resists tearing, sheds water effectively, and handles UV exposure without degrading. The installation video that Betterhood provides is helpful and walks you through the process step by step.
What the 1,500 Reviews Tell Us
With 1,500 reviews and a 4.2 average, this run has enough data to reveal clear patterns. Buyers consistently praise the frame strength and cover quality. The complaints cluster around the wire mesh, the short door latch, and roof sagging over time. Most negative reviews come from buyers who expected predator-proofing out of the box, which this run does not provide.
Upgrades Needed for Predator Zones
Replace the bottom three feet of mesh with hardware cloth. Add a longer latch or a second carabiner clip to the door. Install a center roof support pole to prevent sagging. With these three upgrades totaling roughly $40 to $60, this run transforms from adequate to genuinely secure.
5. CHIKENCOOP 9.8 x 6.5 ft Metal Chicken Run – Best Walk-In for Small Flocks
CHIKENCOOP 9.8 x 6.5 x 6.5 ft Metal Chicken Coop, Chicken Run with Cover
- Comfortable 6.5ft walk-in height
- Reinforced frame with corner braces
- Includes natural eucalyptus roosting perch
- Peaked roof sheds rain and snow
- Waterproof UV-resistant cover
- Assembly takes about two hours
- Frame wobbles without extra reinforcement
The CHIKENCOOP run is the best chicken run option for keepers with a small backyard flock of 6 to 10 birds. The 9.8 by 6.5 foot footprint gives roughly 64 square feet, which is enough room for a standard backyard flock to move, scratch, and dust bathe without crowding.
What makes this model stand out is the included eucalyptus roosting perch. Most runs in this size category ship as empty shells and you buy perches separately. The 47 by 40 inch natural wood perch gives chickens an elevated resting spot inside the run, which they use constantly during hot afternoons when the ground is too warm.
The reinforced frame uses bottom corner braces that connect horizontal and vertical poles, plus an additional rear support pole that strengthens the roof-to-base connection. These additions address the frame wobble that plagues many runs in this size class. Even so, I recommend adding cross-bracing if you live in a windy area.
The peaked roof design is more than cosmetic. It actively sheds rain and light snow, preventing the water pooling that causes premature cover failure. Assembly takes about two hours with clear instructions and labeled parts. The waterproof UV-resistant cover handled afternoon thunderstorms during testing without leaking.
Perfect Flock Size and Yard Fit
This run fits 6 to 10 standard breeds comfortably. The 6.5-foot height means you walk in without ducking, which makes daily feeding, watering, and egg collection genuinely pleasant. The footprint fits in most suburban backyards without dominating the space, and the galvanized frame blends into the landscape better than painted models.
Frame Reinforcement Tips
Use zip ties or wire to add diagonal bracing at each corner. Drive ground stakes at every vertical pole, not just the four corners. If your soil is soft or sandy, consider concrete footings at the main support poles for permanent installations. These small additions eliminate the frame wobble that some buyers report.
6. HEYTOWN Large Metal Chicken Coop – Best Multi-Purpose Enclosure
- Galvanized steel technology for rust resistance
- PVC coated mesh for ventilation
- Spire roof design drains water effectively
- Works for chickens rabbits ducks cats and dogs
- Two-person assembly with clear instructions
- Needs additional reinforcement for heavy weather
The HEYTOWN run caught my attention because of its versatility. While it is marketed as a chicken coop, the 157 by 117 inch footprint and 78-inch height make it suitable for rabbits, ducks, cats, and small dogs. If you have mixed animals or want a run you can repurpose later, this model offers that flexibility.
The galvanized steel pipe frame uses 25mm diameter tubing, which provides good wind and rain stability. The spire roof design is the functional highlight. Instead of a flat or gently sloped roof that collects water, the spire shape channels rain off quickly. During our testing, the roof shed a heavy downpour with zero pooling.
The PVC-coated hexagonal wire mesh provides good ventilation while containing birds effectively. The coating extends the life of the wire by protecting it from corrosion. As with all hexagonal mesh in this category, plan to add hardware cloth along the bottom for serious predator defense.
The PE roof cover with spire design handles sun and rain well. Assembly is straightforward with two people following the included instructions. The total build time was about two hours, and every component arrived labeled and organized. No missing parts were reported across the reviews we analyzed.
Multi-Species Use Cases
Beyond chickens, this run works well for housing ducks, which need more horizontal space than chickens. Rabbit keepers use it for outdoor exercise runs. Some buyers reported using it as a puppy pen or for separating farm animals during breeding season. The 78-inch height accommodates all these uses without modification.
Weather and Wind Considerations
The spire roof handles rain beautifully, but the large sail area of the cover catches wind. In gusty conditions, secure every ground stake and consider adding ratchet straps from the frame to ground anchors. The 25mm pipes are sturdy, but a 13-foot run has a lot of surface area for wind to push against.
7. Sino Luban Large Metal Chicken Coop Run – Best Compact Walk-In
- Thick 0.8mm steel pipes exceed standard gauge
- Zinc coating for rust resistance
- 14 ground stakes included
- Labeled components for easy assembly
- 1 year guarantee
- 1-inch mesh holes not predator-proof
- Tarp coverage may be insufficient
- Heavy build needs two people
The Sino Luban run is the most compact walk-in model in our roundup at roughly 78.7 by 78.7 inches. That square footprint gives you about 43 square feet of space, which suits a flock of 5 to 8 chickens. The 74.8-inch height is comfortable for most adults to walk in without stooping.
The standout feature here is the 0.8mm thick steel pipe frame. Sino Luban specifically calls this out as thicker than the 0.5mm standard used on many competing runs. That extra wall thickness translates directly to rigidity. The frame felt noticeably more solid than thinner-gauge models when we pushed and pulled on it during setup.
The zinc coating on the steel provides rust resistance that should outlast painted frames. Sino Luban includes 14 ground stakes, which is generous for a run this size. Driving all 14 stakes gave us a frame that held firm even when we tested it in windy conditions.
The PVC-coated hexagonal wire mesh has 1-inch holes. This is fine for containing chickens and stopping hawks, but it will not stop raccoons, which can reach through 1-inch gaps. The tarp cover provides sun and rain protection but some buyers found the coverage area insufficient for full weather shielding.
Best Yard and Flock Fit
This run fits small suburban yards where space is limited. A flock of 5 to 8 standard breeds will have enough room to move and forage. The square shape makes it easy to position against a coop wall or fence line to create a connected enclosure system.
Mesh and Cover Upgrades
Wrap the bottom 18 to 24 inches in half-inch hardware cloth to stop raccoon reach-throughs. Consider purchasing a larger tarp or adding shade cloth panels if you need more weather coverage than the included cover provides. These are inexpensive upgrades that significantly improve the run’s effectiveness.
8. NUGRIART Metal Chicken Coop – Best Budget Option for Small Flocks
- Spacious enough for 6 to 8 hens
- 10-minute tool-free assembly
- Automatic gravity lock with hook buckle
- 20 ground nails included
- UV and waterproof PE cover
- Requires ground nails for full stability
- Lower height not true walk-in
The NUGRIART chicken coop is the most affordable model in our roundup and it earns its place by delivering solid value for small flock keepers. At 83 by 38 by 34 inches, it is not a walk-in run but rather a tall enclosure that works well as a day-time exercise pen connected to a coop.
The assembly is genuinely fast. NUGRIART claims 10 minutes without tools, and our team came close at about 15 minutes. The push-in connector system is simple and intuitive. This is the run I would recommend for someone who wants to get chickens started quickly without a weekend build project.
The epoxy coating on the steel frame is designed to resist rust, corrosion, and fading. During our three-month test, the frame held its finish with no visible corrosion. The 20 included ground nails are more than most runs provide, and driving all 20 creates a stable enclosure that resists tipping and wind shifts.
The automatic gravity lock door with hook buckle is a smart design touch. The lock engages automatically when the door closes, which means you will not accidentally leave the run unsecured after a rushed morning feeding. The PE cover is UV-resistant, waterproof, and scratch-resistant, handling sun and rain without degradation.
Small Flock and Space Planning
This enclosure suits 4 to 6 hens as a standalone run, or up to 8 if connected to a coop where birds also have interior space. The 34-inch height means you will reach in rather than walk in, so consider whether that matters for your daily routine. For the price, the space-to-cost ratio is excellent.
Stability and Ground Installation
Drive all 20 ground nails for maximum stability. The frame relies on these anchors to maintain rigidity, so skipping them results in a wobbly structure. On hard or rocky ground, pilot holes make the stakes easier to install. For permanent setups, consider anchoring the corner posts to concrete for year-round stability.
How to Choose the Right Chicken Run?
Choosing among the best chicken runs comes down to five factors that determine whether your flock stays safe and your run lasts for years. Our team compiled this guide based on testing, buyer feedback, and insights from experienced keepers in backyard chicken communities.
Predator Proofing: The Number One Priority
The number one killer of backyard chickens is predators, and the most common entry point is weak wire mesh. Standard chicken wire keeps chickens in but does not keep predators out. Raccoons can chew through it, foxes can dig under it, and coyotes can rip it from the frame. Every forum thread and buyer review we analyzed pointed to the same conclusion: use hardware cloth for the bottom two to three feet of any run.
Hardware cloth is welded wire mesh, typically half-inch gauge, that predators cannot chew through or rip apart. It costs more than chicken wire but it is the single most important upgrade you can make. Secure it to the frame with galvanized screws and washers, not zip ties, because raccoons can chew through plastic.
For digging predators, install a ground apron. This is a horizontal strip of hardware cloth extending 12 to 24 inches outward from the base of the run, then buried under a few inches of soil or gravel. When a predator tries to dig under the wall, they hit the apron and cannot get through.
Size Requirements and Chicken Math
The general rule is 8 to 10 square feet per chicken in a run. That means a 10 by 10 foot run houses about 10 chickens. But here is where chicken math comes in. Chickens are addictive, and most keepers end up with more birds than they planned for. Always size up.
For a 10 by 10 run, plan for 8 to 10 chickens maximum to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowded runs lead to feather picking, disease transmission, and stress-related behavioral problems. If you think you will eventually want 12 chickens, build or buy a run sized for 15.
Height matters too. A walk-in run of at least 6 feet tall makes daily maintenance dramatically easier. You can stand up while cleaning, feeding, and catching birds. Non-walk-in runs under 4 feet tall are fine for small flocks but become painful to service over time.
Roof Style and Weather Protection
A roof is essential on any chicken run. It protects birds from aerial predators like hawks and owls, provides shade in summer, and keeps rain and snow off the flock. The two main roof styles are flat and peaked, and each has trade-offs.
Peaked roofs shed rain and snow more effectively than flat roofs. Water runs off quickly instead of pooling, which extends the life of the cover material. The CHIKENCOOP and HEYTOWN models both use peaked or spire designs that handle wet weather well.
Flat roofs are simpler to manufacture and assemble but they require more maintenance. You need to clear standing water and snow promptly to prevent cover failure and frame stress. If you live in a snowy climate, a peaked roof is strongly recommended, and you should still clear heavy snow accumulation to protect the frame.
For cover material, Oxford fabric outperforms PE tarps. The 240D Oxford cloth on the Betterhood run and the 210D on the Xbrigh both resist tearing and UV damage better than standard PE covers. If your run ships with a PE cover, consider it a starting point rather than a permanent solution.
Materials and Wire Mesh Quality
The frame material determines how long your run lasts. Galvanized steel is the gold standard because the zinc coating prevents rust even at scratches and joint connections. Painted or epoxy-coated frames look good initially but corrode once the coating chips.
Steel pipe thickness matters as much as the coating. Standard runs use 0.5mm wall thickness, which flexes under wind and snow loads. The better models in our roundup use 0.8mm pipes, which are roughly 60 percent thicker. That difference is immediately noticeable when you push against the assembled frame.
For wire mesh, the hierarchy from weakest to strongest is: chicken wire, PVC-coated hexagonal wire, welded wire, and hardware cloth. Every run in this roundup ships with either chicken wire or PVC-coated hexagonal mesh. None are predator-proof out of the box. Budget for hardware cloth upgrades on the lower walls regardless of which run you choose.
Door Security and Latch Design
Raccoons can open simple latches, slide bolts, and hook-and-eye closures. They are dexterous and persistent. Every experienced keeper we heard from recommended two-step locks or carabiner clips on run doors.
The CAMMOO double-lock door is the best stock latch design in our roundup. The HITTITE metal latch is also solid. For runs with weaker latches, add a carabiner clip through the latch hole. It costs about two dollars and stops raccoons cold.
Assembly and Portability
Most metal chicken runs require two people and one to three hours for assembly. The NUGRIART is the exception with its 10-minute tool-free build. Larger runs like the Xbrigh 20-footer benefit from a third person, especially when installing the roof cover.
If you plan to move your run for pasture rotation, look for lighter models with ground stakes rather than permanent anchors. Chicken tractors and mobile runs are a different category, but some keepers successfully move standard runs by removing the ground stakes and sliding the structure. This works best on flat, firm ground.
Check that all parts arrive labeled and sorted. The CAMMOO and Sino Luban both ship with pre-sorted, labeled components, which saves significant time during assembly. Runs that arrive with mixed hardware in single bags add an hour of sorting before you can start building.
FAQs
What is the best chicken run to buy?
The CAMMOO 13.1ft Walk-In Chicken Run is our top pick for most backyard keepers. It combines 0.8mm thick steel tubing, a double-lock door, tough PP mesh, and an all-weather cover at a reasonable price. For large flocks, the HITTITE 19-foot run offers the best value per square foot.
How big should a chicken run be?
Plan for 8 to 10 square feet per chicken in a run. A 10×10 foot run comfortably houses 8 to 10 chickens. Always size up from your current flock size because most keepers add more chickens over time. Walk-in height of at least 6 feet makes daily maintenance much easier.
How do I make a chicken run predator proof?
Replace the bottom 2 to 3 feet of wire mesh with half-inch hardware cloth secured by screws and washers. Install a ground apron of hardware cloth extending 12 to 24 inches outward from the base. Use two-step locks or carabiner clips on doors. Raccoons can open simple latches and chew through chicken wire.
Do chicken runs need a roof?
Yes, every chicken run needs a roof cover. A roof protects chickens from aerial predators like hawks and owls, provides shade in summer, and keeps rain and snow off the flock. Peaked roofs shed water better than flat roofs and are recommended for areas with regular rain or snow.
How many chickens can live in a 10×10 run?
A 10×10 foot run provides 100 square feet of space, which comfortably houses 8 to 10 chickens at 10 square feet per bird. If you also provide a separate coop for nighttime roosting at 4 square feet per bird, you can maintain a healthy, stress-free flock of that size.
Final Thoughts on the Best Chicken Runs
Finding the best chicken runs for your flock comes down to matching frame strength, wire quality, and size to your specific predator pressure and flock size. Our Editor’s Choice, the CAMMOO 13.1ft run, hits the sweet spot of security, build quality, and value for most backyard keepers. For large flocks, the HITTITE 19-foot run delivers unmatched space per dollar.
Remember that no run is predator-proof straight out of the box. Budget for hardware cloth on the lower walls, a ground apron for dig defense, and upgraded door latches. These upgrades cost far less than replacing a flock after a predator attack. Build it right once, and your chickens will be safe and happy for years to come.