Creating a Chicken Run with your Little Beaver Auger

We're not professional farmers or backyard chicken gurus, but we've taken the time to research and gather helpful tips so your chicken run project goes as smoothly as possible. One thing we've learned loud and clear is the importance of giving your chickens space to roam. Chickens aren't just egg-laying machines; they're curious, active creatures that love to scratch at the dirt, hunt for bugs, and explore their surroundings. A well-planned run provides a safe space for them to do all of that while staying protected from predators. This extra space leads to healthier, less-stressed birds and even boosts egg production in the long run.

Most experts recommend about 10 square feet of space per chicken to keep your flock happy and content. You'll also want to consider the environment. If you live in a hotter climate, placing your run in a shady spot can keep your birds cool and comfortable. In colder areas, sunny exposure can help warm things up. For your comfort, we suggest making the run at least 6 feet tall so you can easily walk in for cleaning, feeding, or just checking on your birds. Using a Little Beaver auger can make digging those post holes quick and easy, especially if you're building a larger setup. Whether you're a seasoned homesteader or just getting started with backyard chickens, having a well-built run is a major step toward a happy, healthy flock.

Planning and Tools

Before building your chicken run, it's important to spend some time planning the layout. Start by measuring the area where you want the run to be located, taking into account the number of chickens you have and the space they'll need; approximately 10 square feet per bird is a good rule of thumb. Once you've decided on the dimensions, mark the spots for your support posts. Accurate marking will make the building process much easier and ensure your run is square and sturdy.

Essential Tools

Having the right tools on hand can make your build quicker and more enjoyable. At the center of it all is the Little Beaver Earth Drill, a compact and powerful auger that takes the hard work out of digging post holes. If you're planning to trench around the perimeter to bury mesh or add underground protection, the Little Beaver Kwik-Trench Earth Saw is also a helpful option.

• Measuring tape and marking flags or stakes
• Little Beaver Mechanical Earth Drill for fast and easy post hole digging
• Kwik-Trench Earth Saw for perimeter trenching
• Shovel and level for fine adjustments

*Learn More about Little Beaver Earth Drills and Kwik-Trench Earth Saws here: Where to Buy an Auger or Trencher (And What to Look For)

Frame and Fencing Materials

The structural frame of your chicken run can be constructed from a variety of material types, each offering its own set of benefits depending on your priorities and budget. For a fast and cost-effective solution, T-posts are a popular choice and are relatively simple to install, making them ideal for quick setups or temporary enclosures. If you're aiming for something more permanent and long-lasting, pressure-treated wood provides excellent durability and can better withstand the elements over time. After the frame is in place, the next crucial step is to attach a secure and reliable covering, this will ensure your chickens stay safely inside the run while keeping out potential predators like raccoons, hawks, and foxes.

• T-posts or pressure-treated lumber
• Chicken wire, or poultry fencing
• Black-coated mesh (popular for better visibility and appearance)
• Staples, zip ties, fencing ties or hog ties to attach mesh to the frame

General Building Supplies

• Handsaw or circular saw (for cutting wood)
• Power drill or screwdriver
• Wood screws or construction screws
• Staple gun or hammer for attaching fencing materials

Optional Add-Ons

Installing a gate in your chicken run significantly improves accessibility, making daily tasks like feeding, watering, cleaning, and even spending time with your flock much more convenient. A simple swinging door can be easily constructed using a pair of sturdy hinges and a reliable latch, allowing for smooth entry and secure closure. This setup is especially beneficial when your run is free-standing and not directly attached to the coop, as it provides a designated access point without requiring you to lift or move panels. A well-placed gate not only adds functionality but also enhances the overall organization and usability of your chicken-keeping space.

• Gate hinges and latch hardware
• Handle or knob for convenience

As you finalize your layout, consider whether your chicken run will be attached to your coop or freestanding. Attached runs can offer easier access from the coop, while standalone runs give you more flexibility with placement and design. You'll also want to decide early on if you plan to include a door or gate for human access. If so, be sure to follow Steps 8-11 later in the guide for door installation tips.

Step-by-Step: How to Build a Chicken Run

Optional Step 7.: Add an outer support frame

For added strength and a more refined appearance, consider installing an outer frame along both the top and middle sections of your fence. This structural reinforcement helps keep the mesh securely in place, reducing the risk of sagging or warping over time, especially in areas subject to wind or frequent impact. It’s particularly useful when working with longer fence runs or when using lighter, more flexible mesh materials that are prone to stretching. The outer frame not only improves the visual appeal of the fence but also ensures long-term stability and consistent tension across the entire surface.

Adding a Gate or Door (Optional but Recommended)

What to Include Inside Your Chicken Run

Where to Buy an Auger or Trencher (And What to Look For)

If you're planning to build a chicken run or tackle any future outdoor projects, investing in the right digging equipment can save you hours of back-breaking labor. Two tools we highly recommend for this job are the Little Beaver Mechanical Earth Drill and the Kwik-Trench Earth Saw. Both are designed to be compact, user-friendly, and powerful enough for homeowners and pros alike.

Understanding the Earth Drill vs. Auger Components

It's important to know that a mechanical earth drill is the power unit only; it does not come with the auger bit, tip, or blade. This often confuses first-time buyers who expect a complete digging setup out of the box. To dig holes, you'll need to pair your drill with a compatible auger and cutting components.

Choosing the Right Auger Blades and Tips

For digging post holes in compacted or rocky soil, a carbide tip and blade setup offers stronger cutting power and long-lasting durability. In softer ground like sand or loam, a standard dirt blade is usually sufficient. Both tips and blades are replaceable, making it easy to maintain your equipment without needing a whole new auger. You can shop auger points and shop replacement blades directly at LittleBeaverStore.

What Auger Is Best?

When choosing an auger for your chicken run project, you'll want to consider both the auger type and the width. For general soil conditions, a standard snap-on auger will usually do the trick. If you're dealing with rocky, clay-heavy, or compacted soil, upgrading to a carbide auger gives you extra cutting power and durability. For heavier-duty digging or professional-grade jobs, a Pengo-style auger is a great option with replaceable blades and points designed to handle tough conditions.

Auger Types:

• Shop Standard Snap-On Augers: ideal for most general soil conditions
• Shop Carbide Augers: better for hard, rocky, or compacted soils
• Shop Pengo-Style Augers: heavy-duty option for tougher digging jobs

As for width, a 6-inch to 8-inch auger bit is typically ideal for chicken run posts. A 6-inch bit works well for steel or t-posts, while 8 inches gives enough room for wood or vinyl 4x4 posts. Only consider 10 inches or larger if you're using oversized posts or want to set them in extra concrete.

Auger Widths:

• 6" Auger: ideal for t-posts or narrow framing
• 8" Auger: best for 4x4 wood or vinyl posts
• 10" or Wider: only needed for oversized posts or extra concrete reinforcement

Using a Trenching Tool

To keep your chicken run predator-proof, trenching along the perimeter is key. A 4" deep trench allows you to bury your fencing material and prevent animals from digging in. The Little Beaver Kwik-Trench Earth Saw is perfect for this task, lightweight, maneuverable, and able to cut clean, narrow trenches without the need for heavy equipment.

• Trench depth: 4-6 inches is enough for most fencing applications
• Trench width: 2-4 inches allows for secure mesh burial

Where to Buy Earth Drills and Trenchers

All of these tools and components are available directly through LittleBeaverStore.com , the trusted source for genuine Little Beaver equipment and parts. Whether you're looking for a complete drill setup or need a replacement blade or auger, we make it easy to build a customized order for your project. If you have questions or need help selecting the right parts, feel free to contact us.

Ready to Build Your Chicken Run?

Creating a chicken run is a rewarding way to give your flock a safe and enriching space to roam, and with the right tools and materials, it's a project most DIYers can tackle with confidence. If you have any questions about building your run or need help selecting the right equipment, please don't hesitate to reach out. Little Beaver Store, Gate Security Hardware, Chain Link Fittings, and Tenax Fence are all part of the DF Supply, Inc. family, so you can shop confidently, knowing you're getting quality products and expert support from a team that understands your project. Contact us if you have questions or would like help putting together a single, coordinated order with products from across our sites.