Hardware Cloth vs Chicken Wire
The single most common mistake is using hexagonal chicken wire for protection. It keeps poultry in but predators easily tear, bite or reach through it. Welded hardware cloth — a rigid welded mesh, typically galvanised — is the correct choice wherever predators are a risk. Use the smaller aperture on the lower section and any area a predator can reach.
| Mesh type | Contains animals | Stops predators | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hexagonal chicken wire | Yes | No | Internal dividers, run roofs |
| Welded hardware cloth | Yes | Yes | Walls, base aprons, vulnerable zones |
| Heavy welded panel | Yes | Yes | Kennels, large runs |
Aperture vs Animal & Predator
Aperture must be small enough that the target predator cannot reach through or squeeze in. Rats and weasels are the hardest to exclude. The reference below uses common imperial mesh sizes still standard for hardware cloth. See mesh count to opening size if you need to convert.
| Animal / threat | Recommended max aperture | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chickens (containment) | 25mm (1in) | Larger is fine if no predators |
| Foxes / dogs / cats | 25mm (1in) | Use welded, not hexagonal |
| Rats | 13mm (½in) | 12.5mm hardware cloth standard |
| Mice / weasels / snakes | 6mm (¼in) | ¼in hardware cloth |
| Aviary small birds | 13mm (½in) or finer | Prevents escape and rodent entry |
Recommended Gauge by Enclosure
Heavier wire resists chewing and clawing. Rabbits, rodents and determined predators warrant thicker gauge, especially on the base and lower walls.
| Enclosure | Aperture | Typical gauge | Coating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken run / coop | 13mm (½in) | 19–16 gauge | Galvanised |
| Aviary | 13mm (½in) | 19 gauge | Galvanised / PVC |
| Rabbit hutch | 13mm (½in) | 16 gauge | Galvanised / PVC |
| Kennel / dog run | 25–50mm | 12–8 SWG | Galvanised |
Predator-Proofing Best Practice
- Bury a mesh skirt or 'apron' 30cm down and 30cm outward to stop digging predators.
- Use welded hardware cloth, not staples through soft hexagonal wire, at all reachable heights.
- Cover runs fully — birds of prey and climbing predators attack from above.
- Fix mesh with washers or battens so predators cannot pull staples out.
- Use galvanised-after-welding mesh for the longest outdoor life; PVC coating is gentler on birds.
Material & Coating Choice
Galvanised steel is the standard for cost and strength. PVC-coated mesh is softer on birds' feet and beaks and resists corrosion from droppings. In very damp or coastal conditions, stainless steel mesh lasts longest — compare options in our galvanised vs stainless guide.