[Pundyburn Lynn]

Hello folks,


We're looking for advice from those in the know...


We're experienced poultry keepers but have recently moved to an area where there are pine martens. Inevitably we have lost our six starter chickens in two separate attacks, and are gutted. The local gamekeeper has told us there's no point keeping chickens unless they're contained by a 2m fence with a 45degree overhang and electric fencing.  Does anyone have any experience or wisdom in this field? 


I understand pine martens are a highly intelligent and protected species, but I can't accept that humans can be outsmarted by them?


Any marten-proof tips, or coop designs out there??


Thanks,
Lynn

[harmony]

I understand pine martens are a highly intelligent and protected species, but I can't accept that humans can be outsmarted by them? - I think you will find animals manage to out smart us on many occasions!
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[/size]The local gamekeeper will have a pretty good idea of protecting his birds. Do they break in at night or daytime attacks?[/color]

[chrismahon]

Pine Martens are a problem in the Dordogne because they 'floss' their teeth with your car's rubber brake pipes and also wiper blades. Important to check your brakes before going onto the road! The locals keep them at bay by parking on chicken wire because, I was told, PM's can't retract their claws completely and get snagged on the wire, so don't go near it. Our chickens were behind a simple chicken wire enclosure 5 feet high with a foot turned outwards at the base, no electrification, and we never had a problem. Foxes and hunting dogs were another matter and a fence as described would be necessary to keep them out.

[Steph Hen]

I would think electric would help a lot!
You could check if your new fence is martin proof before getting hens - bait the enclosure with food they life and a wildlife camera?

Maybe think about a smaller, completely contained, movable run until you've sorted permanent fence? Something like an eglu so you're not without your fresh eggs?

[Marches Farmer]

We suffer from stoats and weasels, which are particularly fond of turkey poults.  Smiths Sectional Buildings have several coop designs which have an entirely enclosed run with small gauge mesh.  They're expensive but the oldest of ours is now 10 years old and as good as new (three coats of "proper" creosote have helped).  These standing on concrete or scalpings work fine.  Not sure how big a gap a pine marten needs but mesh dog cage panels standing on a similar base keep foxes and badgers out.