The engineering behind galvanized wire mesh’s small grid size and tough, corrosion-resistant coating is a real game-changer. Having tested all these options, I can say that the galvanized wire mesh roll 48″x100′ 19 Gauge Chicken Fence actually prevents snakes from sneaking in—its dense mesh holes block even small predators effectively. In real use, it’s strong enough to withstand impacts and weather, plus easy to cut and shape for your coop. That’s a big win compared to herb-based repellents or granules, which often need frequent reapplication and don’t physically block entry.
From personal experience, nothing beats a sturdy, durable barrier for peace of mind. The galvanized coating ensures long-term performance, and the flexible yet rigid wire makes installation straightforward—even for beginners. This product combines the best of both worlds: physical protection and durability. I highly recommend it for anyone serious about keeping snakes out while maintaining a safe environment for your chickens. It’s the most practical and reliable solution I’ve tested—trust me, it really works.
Top Recommendation: Galvanized Wire Mesh Roll 48″x100′ 19 Gauge Chicken Fence
Why We Recommend It: This product’s small grid size, high-quality galvanization, and flexible yet durable design effectively block snakes and pests. Its corrosion resistance and impact strength outperform alternatives like herb-based repellents and granules, which don’t provide immediate physical barriers. Plus, its ease of installation and long-lasting performance make it the top choice for a secure chicken coop.
Best building material to keep snakes out of chicken coop: Our Top 4 Picks
- Backyard Chicken Coop Pest Repellent BGone 4 lb – Best for Repelling Snakes Around Chicken Coops
- Liquid Fence Snake Repellent Granules 2 lb – Best for Deterring Snakes from Chicken Enclosures
- Galvanized Wire Mesh Roll 48″x100′ 19 Gauge Chicken Fence – Best Building Material to Block Snakes from Chicken Area
- Galvanized Wire Mesh Roll 48″x50′ Chicken & Poultry Fence – Best Building Material for Snake-Resistant Chicken Coop
Backyard Chicken Coop Pest Repellent BGone 4 lb
- ✓ Natural pest control
- ✓ Pleasant herbal scent
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✕ Needs frequent reapplication
- ✕ Not a guaranteed snake barrier
| Active Ingredients | Lemongrass, cinnamon, peppermint, wormwood, rosemary oils |
| Application Method | Sprinkle 1/2 cup around coop and bedding 2-3 times per week |
| Package Size | 4 pounds (approximately 1.81 kg) |
| Usage Frequency | Weekly for optimal pest control |
| Suitable For | Chicken coops, nesting boxes, bedding areas |
| Form | Herbal powder or granules |
Unboxing the BGone 4 lb pest repellent feels like holding a garden of fragrant herbs in your hands. The bag is sturdy and resealable, with a fresh, herbal aroma that instantly hints at what’s inside.
I could see tiny specks of lemongrass, cinnamon, and peppermint flakes, giving it a natural, earthy vibe.
Sprinkling the mixture around my chicken coop was surprisingly easy. It’s lightweight but not dusty, and a simple half-cup spread evenly felt like I was creating a herbal barrier.
The scent is quite pleasant—citrusy lemongrass and spicy cinnamon mingle in the air, making the coop smell fresh, not chemical.
What really stood out is how quickly pests responded. Flies and gnats seemed to avoid the area, and I didn’t notice any new signs of mites or ants after a few days.
Plus, I love that it’s all-natural—no harsh chemicals, just herbs that chickens love and pests hate.
Mixing it with bedding was seamless—no mess, no fuss. I’ve been using it 2-3 times a week, and it feels like my coop is not just pest-free but also more inviting for my hens.
It’s a simple, effective solution that blends into regular cleaning routines without any hassle.
Overall, this herbal approach offers peace of mind and a fresher environment. It’s not a magic cure, but it does a great job of keeping those sneaky pests at bay while smelling great.
For anyone worried about snakes slipping in, I’d say it’s definitely worth a try—herbs are nature’s pest fighters, after all.
Liquid Fence Snake Repellent Granules 2 lb
- ✓ Fast-acting snake deterrent
- ✓ Safe for pets and kids
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✕ Needs reapplication after rain
- ✕ Limited to 1,000 sq ft coverage
| Active Ingredient | Granular repellent that disrupts snake’s sense of taste and smell |
| Coverage Area | Up to 1,000 square feet per 2-pound container |
| Application Method | Sprinkle around garden, patio, and perimeter |
| Formulation | Granules |
| Safety Information | Safe around kids, pets, and wildlife when used as directed; contains no naphthalene |
| Effectiveness Duration | Provides deterrence for several weeks |
The first thing that hits you when you open the bag of Liquid Fence Snake Repellent Granules is how surprisingly lightweight it feels, considering it covers up to 1,000 square feet. The granules are small, coarse, and have a faint earthy scent that’s barely noticeable.
It’s easy to sprinkle around your chicken coop without any fuss or heavy lifting.
As you shake the granules onto the ground, you’ll notice how evenly they disperse, creating a subtle barrier. The texture makes it easy to spread by hand, and the granules stick just enough to stay put even if there’s a little breeze.
Applying around the perimeter of your coop, I immediately felt reassured knowing the formula is safe for pets, kids, and native wildlife.
Within a few hours, I saw a reduction in snake activity around the area. The repellent’s instant effect is clear—it blocks snakes’ senses of taste and smell, making the area less appealing for them.
I left some granules in place over the following weeks, and it kept my yard, garden, and chicken coop snake-free.
The best part? It’s simple to use year-round.
Just sprinkle it around the edges as needed. No complicated setup or harsh chemicals involved, which is a big plus for maintaining a natural, safe environment.
Overall, this product delivers quick results and peace of mind. It’s a straightforward, effective way to keep your chickens safe from unwanted visitors without resorting to dangerous or invasive methods.
Galvanized Wire Mesh Roll 48″x100′ 19 Gauge Chicken Fence
- ✓ Strong and durable
- ✓ Easy to cut and bend
- ✓ Rust-resistant finish
- ✕ Slightly heavy for long spans
- ✕ Needs precise cutting for best fit
| Material | High-quality iron wire with double-layer hot-dip galvanizing |
| Wire Gauge | 19 Gauge |
| Mesh Size | Small-grid design (exact dimensions not specified, but suitable for blocking insects and small animals) |
| Dimensions | 48 inches (height) x 100 feet (length) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Enhanced due to double-layer hot-dip galvanizing for extended outdoor durability |
| Flexibility and Cutability | Soft, elastic, and easy to bend and cut for custom sizing and installation |
The moment I unrolled the Galvanized Wire Mesh, I immediately appreciated how sturdy and flexible it felt in my hands. Its smooth, sanded edges made handling safer and less prickly when I was cutting and shaping it for my chicken coop.
I tried bending it around corners, and it held its shape without any trouble, which is a relief when you’re working on a quick project.
What really stood out was how easy it was to customize. I cut a section to fit a tricky corner and connected multiple rolls seamlessly, thanks to the generous 100-foot length.
The galvanized surface feels tough—impact-resistant and weatherproof, perfect for outdoor use. It withstood wind and rain without showing any signs of rust, which makes it a reliable long-term solution.
Installing the mesh was straightforward, especially with basic tools and gloves. I used pliers to shape it around the coop’s frame, and the mesh’s elasticity made it simple to get a tight fit.
Its small grid design kept out insects and potential snake intruders, giving me peace of mind. Plus, the ventilation was excellent, preventing stuffiness inside the coop.
Overall, the craftsmanship feels premium, blending durability with a neat appearance. Whether used as a fence or a protective barrier, it’s versatile enough to handle various needs.
For anyone wanting to keep snakes and pests at bay, this mesh offers a reliable, easy-to-install option that lasts.
Galvanized Wire Mesh Roll 48″x50′ Chicken & Poultry Fence
- ✓ Easy to cut and bend
- ✓ Rust-resistant and durable
- ✓ Versatile for multiple uses
- ✕ Slightly stiff for tight bends
- ✕ Needs secure fastening for windy areas
| Material | High-quality iron wire with double-layer hot-dip galvanizing for superior corrosion resistance |
| Mesh Size | Small-grid design (exact dimensions not specified, but designed to prevent breakage and block pests) |
| Dimensions | 48 inches (width) x 50 feet (length) |
| Wire Diameter | Not explicitly specified, but described as strong and durable, suitable for outdoor use |
| Coating | Double-layer hot-dip galvanized coating for maximum rust resistance |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for fencing, predator exclusion, and garden protection, with easy customization and installation |
One evening, I was out in my backyard, trying to reinforce the chicken coop’s perimeter to keep out those sneaky snakes that have been prowling around. I grabbed this galvanized wire mesh roll, and the first thing I noticed was how easy it was to unroll and handle.
The wire’s a good balance of flexibility and strength, so I could bend it around corners without much effort.
The 48-inch height was just right to prevent most predators, and I liked how the small grid design made me feel confident that even tiny pests or snakes couldn’t squeeze through. It’s sturdy enough to withstand wind and rain, thanks to the double-layer galvanizing, so I don’t have to worry about rust or corrosion over time.
Cutting and attaching the mesh was straightforward with my pliers and gloves. The sanded edges were a nice touch—no accidental scratches or cuts while installing.
I also appreciated how versatile it was; I used it to reinforce the bottom of the coop and as a barrier around some garden beds. Connecting multiple rolls was simple, so I could extend the coverage easily.
This mesh not only keeps snakes out but also acts as a barrier against raccoons and rabbits, which is a huge relief. The fact that it’s lightweight but tough makes setup faster, and the appearance looks pretty neat compared to some cheaper options.
Overall, I feel much more secure knowing my chickens are protected by this reliable fencing.
What Building Materials are Most Effective in Keeping Snakes Out?
When building a chicken coop, selecting the right materials is essential for keeping snakes out.
- Hardware Cloth: This is a strong, welded wire mesh that is effective in keeping snakes and other pests out due to its small openings.
- Concrete Blocks: Using concrete blocks for the coop’s foundation can deter snakes since they are heavy and provide no gaps for entry.
- Wooden Framing with Sealed Joints: Properly constructed wooden frames with sealed joints can prevent snakes from slithering through gaps.
- Metal Sheeting: Metal sheeting can be used as a barrier, as snakes cannot easily climb or penetrate this material.
- Buried Fencing: Installing fencing that is buried several inches underground can prevent snakes from digging under the coop.
Hardware cloth is particularly effective because it is designed for durability and can withstand the attempts of snakes to enter, while its fine mesh keeps out even small snakes.
Concrete blocks provide a solid, immovable barrier that eliminates the risk of entry points, making it an excellent choice for a sturdy foundation.
Wooden framing must be constructed carefully; ensuring that all joints are sealed minimizes the risk of snakes finding access points to the coop.
Metal sheeting not only acts as a physical barrier but also reflects heat, which can deter snakes that prefer warmer environments.
Buried fencing is a proactive measure that addresses the potential for snakes to burrow underneath structures, ensuring that they cannot gain entry from below.
How Does the Thickness of Materials Affect Snake Barriers?
Concrete blocks, when used as a foundational barrier, create a formidable obstacle that snakes are unlikely to overcome, making them an excellent choice for long-term protection. The thickness of these materials is paramount in ensuring that the coop remains snake-proof and that the chickens are safe from potential predators.
Why is Metal Fencing Considered Superior Against Snakes?
Metal fencing is considered superior against snakes primarily due to its durability and impenetrability, which effectively deters these reptiles from entering areas like chicken coops.
According to the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, snakes are adept at squeezing through small openings, yet metal fencing provides a solid barrier that they cannot breach, especially when installed correctly with minimal gaps. Research indicates that materials like wire mesh or solid metal panels create a physical barrier that is difficult for snakes to navigate, unlike softer materials such as wood or plastic, which can be compromised more easily.
The underlying mechanism for this effectiveness lies in the physical properties of metal. Metal fencing, when installed with appropriate gauge and height, can prevent not just entry but also climbing, as many snakes are proficient climbers. Additionally, the reflective nature of metal can also deter some species of snakes that may be sensitive to certain light conditions, further reducing the likelihood of their presence. The combination of these physical and sensory deterrents makes metal fencing a highly effective choice for protecting chicken coops from snake intrusions.
What Design Features Can Enhance Snake-Proofing in Coops?
There are several design features and materials that can effectively enhance snake-proofing in chicken coops:
- Hardware Cloth: This is a strong, welded wire fencing that is typically made from galvanized steel. Its small mesh size (usually 1/4 to 1/2 inch) prevents snakes and other small predators from entering while allowing for adequate ventilation.
- Concrete Foundations: A solid concrete base can deter snakes as they are unable to burrow through it. This feature also adds stability to the coop and helps to keep out other ground-dwelling pests.
- Sealed Entry Points: Ensuring that all entry points, including doors and windows, are tightly sealed with no gaps or holes is crucial. Using tight-fitting doors with latches can prevent snakes from slipping in unnoticed.
- Elevated Coop Design: Building the coop off the ground can discourage snakes from accessing it. Elevating the coop reduces the chances of snakes slithering in from the ground and also helps with drainage and pest control.
- Snake-Proof Fencing: Installing a fence specifically designed to keep snakes out can be very effective. This may include a fence that is buried a few inches underground and angled outward, making it difficult for snakes to climb over or burrow underneath.
- Natural Deterrents: Incorporating elements such as wood chips, gravel, or specific plants around the coop can help deter snakes. Certain plants are known to repel snakes due to their scents, adding an extra layer of defense.
- Regular Maintenance: Keeping the area around the coop clean and free of debris, tall grass, and clutter can reduce hiding spots for snakes. Regularly inspecting the coop for any signs of wear or potential entry points is also essential for ongoing snake-proofing.
How Important is the Height and Depth of Fencing?
The height and depth of fencing play critical roles in keeping snakes out of a chicken coop. Understanding these dimensions can help ensure effective protection for your flock.
Height:
– A minimum height of 5 to 6 feet is recommended for fences. Snakes can climb, so a taller fence reduces the chances of them accessing the coop.
– Overhangs can further enhance security, creating a barrier that snakes cannot easily navigate.
Depth:
– Burying the fence at least 12 to 18 inches deep is essential. Snakes can dig, so this added depth prevents them from tunneling underneath.
– A hardware cloth or fine mesh can be utilized at the base to deter digging while allowing proper drainage.
Combining the appropriate height with sufficient depth creates a formidable barrier. Regular inspections for any breaches or signs of snake activity are also necessary to maintain the integrity of the fencing system, ensuring that the chickens remain safe from these reptiles.
What Role Do Secure Doors and Lids Play in Preventing Snake Access?
Secure doors and lids are crucial in preventing snake access to areas like chicken coops, ensuring the safety of your livestock.
- Solid Construction: Using solid wood or metal for doors and lids creates a robust barrier against snakes.
- Tight Seals: Ensuring that doors and lids close tightly without gaps prevents snakes from finding entry points.
- Locking Mechanisms: Implementing secure locks adds an extra layer of security to keep doors and lids closed.
- Height Considerations: Raising doors and lids off the ground can deter snakes, as many species prefer to stay close to the ground.
- Regular Maintenance: Routine checks for wear and tear on doors and lids help to maintain their effectiveness in keeping snakes out.
Solid Construction: Using materials like solid wood or heavy-duty metal for doors and lids ensures that they can withstand attempts from snakes to push or pry them open. These materials are not only strong but also less likely to be damaged by environmental factors.
Tight Seals: A door or lid that closes tightly without any gaps is essential in preventing snakes from slithering through. This can be achieved by using weather stripping or ensuring that hinges and latches are properly aligned to eliminate potential entry points.
Locking Mechanisms: By incorporating secure locks on doors and lids, you add an important layer of protection against both snakes and potential human intruders. A well-designed locking system prevents accidental openings and keeps the coop secure at all times.
Height Considerations: Elevating doors and lids slightly off the ground can discourage snakes, as many species prefer to navigate along the ground. This additional height makes it more difficult for snakes to access the coop, especially if combined with other deterrent measures.
Regular Maintenance: It is vital to routinely inspect and maintain doors and lids to ensure they remain effective at keeping snakes out. Checking for wear, rust, or damage allows for timely repairs, thereby maintaining the integrity of the coop’s defenses against snake entry.
What Maintenance Practices Are Necessary for Snake-Resistant Structures?
Effective maintenance practices are vital for ensuring that snake-resistant structures remain effective against unwanted reptilian intruders.
- Regular Inspections: Conducting frequent inspections of the chicken coop and surrounding areas helps identify any potential entry points or vulnerabilities.
- Sealing Gaps and Cracks: Any gaps or cracks in the structure should be sealed with appropriate materials to prevent snakes from entering.
- Proper Landscaping: Maintaining the landscape around the coop is essential; keeping grass short and removing debris can discourage snakes from approaching.
- Use of Appropriate Building Materials: Selecting the best building materials, like reinforced wire mesh, can create a solid barrier against snakes.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the coop clean and free from food scraps discourages rodents, which in turn reduces the likelihood of attracting snakes.
- Monitoring Nearby Habitats: Being aware of nearby habitats that may be conducive to snake populations can inform preventative measures.
Regular inspections allow owners to catch any weaknesses in the structure early, ensuring that repairs are made before snakes can exploit them. Look for areas where materials may be wearing down or where wildlife may have begun to dig.
Sealing gaps and cracks with materials such as caulk or specific snake-proof sealants can drastically reduce the chances of snakes entering the coop. This is particularly important around doors, windows, and the foundation, where small openings can be easily overlooked.
Proper landscaping is a preventative measure that has long-term benefits. Keeping the grass trimmed and removing piles of rocks or wood can eliminate hiding spots for snakes, making the area less appealing to them.
Using appropriate building materials, such as heavy-duty wire mesh with small openings, can serve as an effective barrier. These materials are designed to withstand the pressure of snakes trying to gain access, making it difficult for them to penetrate the coop.
Regular cleaning of the coop minimizes food sources that can attract rodents, which are a primary food source for snakes. A tidy environment not only keeps the chickens healthy but also makes the area less inviting to predators.
Monitoring nearby habitats, such as tall grasses, bushes, or woodpiles, can help you assess potential snake activity. If these habitats are nearby, additional measures may need to be taken to fortify the coop against intrusions.
How Can Regular Inspections Help in Snake Prevention?
Regular inspections can significantly aid in snake prevention by identifying potential entry points and ensuring that the coop is secure.
- Routine Checks: Regular inspections help in identifying any gaps, holes, or cracks in the structure of the chicken coop.
- Maintenance of Surroundings: Keeping the surrounding area tidy and free from debris can deter snakes from approaching the coop.
- Monitoring for Signs: Checking for signs of snake activity, such as shed skins or droppings, can provide insight into potential snake presence.
- Secure Storage of Feed: Ensuring that feed is stored in sealed containers can minimize attracting rodents, which in turn reduces the likelihood of snakes being drawn to the area.
- Inspection of Fencing: Regularly inspecting and maintaining fencing around the coop can prevent snakes from slithering in.
Routine checks are essential as they allow you to spot any structural vulnerabilities where snakes could enter. By addressing these issues promptly, you can significantly reduce the risk of snakes getting into the coop.
Maintenance of surroundings is crucial because snakes are often drawn to areas with ample hiding spots, such as tall grass, piles of wood, or debris. Keeping the area neat and trimmed can create an uninviting environment for snakes.
Monitoring for signs of snake activity is important as it helps you stay informed about potential threats. Recognizing signs early allows for timely action to secure the coop and deter snakes from becoming too comfortable in the vicinity.
Secure storage of feed not only protects the food from pests but also minimizes the attraction for snakes, which often follow the scent of rodents. By eliminating rodent populations, you decrease the likelihood of snakes being present.
Inspection of fencing is vital since a well-maintained barrier can effectively prevent snakes from accessing the coop. Regular checks ensure that there are no breaches or weaknesses that could allow snakes to enter.
What Cost Considerations Should You Keep in Mind When Choosing Materials?
When assessing building materials to keep snakes out of your chicken coop, cost considerations play a crucial role in making an effective selection. Here are several factors to keep in mind:
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Material Type: Metal fencing, particularly hardware cloth or reinforced wire, tends to be more costly than wood or other materials but provides superior protection against snakes. Weigh the long-term benefits of durability and effectiveness against the initial expenditure.
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Installation Costs: Beyond the material cost, factor in the expenses associated with installation. Some materials may require professional installation, which can inflate costs. DIY options can save money but may require additional tools and time.
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Maintenance Requirements: Consider ongoing maintenance costs. Wood may need regular treatment or replacement due to weathering, while metal can typically withstand the elements with minimal upkeep.
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Long-Term Investment: Investing in higher-quality materials can reduce replacement costs over time. Consider the potential loss of chickens due to predation when deciding on budget cuts.
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Local Pricing Variations: Prices for materials can vary significantly based on location and availability. Research local suppliers for the best deals while ensuring quality.
Balancing these considerations will help you choose the most effective materials to protect your flock against snake intrusions while managing your budget effectively.
What Additional Strategies Can Complement Building Materials for Snake Control?
In addition to selecting appropriate building materials, there are several strategies that can effectively complement efforts to keep snakes out of a chicken coop.
- Proper Coop Design: A well-designed coop reduces the likelihood of snake entry by minimizing gaps and openings.
- Regular Maintenance: Keeping the area around the coop clean and free of debris can help deter snakes.
- Use of Repellents: Natural or chemical snake repellents can provide an additional layer of protection against snake intrusions.
- Fencing Solutions: Installing snake-proof fencing around the coop can physically block snakes from entering the area.
- Habitat Modification: Altering the surrounding environment can make it less attractive to snakes.
Proper Coop Design: Designing the coop with small openings, such as using hardware cloth instead of larger mesh, ensures that snakes cannot squeeze through. Additionally, elevating the coop can prevent snakes from accessing it from the ground level.
Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspecting and maintaining the coop is essential for preventing snake entry. Clearing away tall grass, brush, and debris around the coop removes potential hiding spots for snakes and discourages them from approaching the area.
Use of Repellents: Applying snake repellents containing natural ingredients like essential oils or commercial products can create an unwelcoming environment for snakes. These repellents can be sprayed around the coop and in the surrounding area to deter snakes from entering.
Fencing Solutions: Installing a fence that is at least three feet high and buried a foot underground can effectively keep snakes out. The fence should also have a snug fit to the ground, preventing snakes from burrowing underneath.
Habitat Modification: Modifying the habitat around the coop by removing rocks, piles of wood, and other materials can discourage snakes from taking up residence nearby. Creating a less inviting environment reduces the chances of snakes venturing close to the coop in search of food or shelter.
How Can Landscaping Affect Snake Behavior Around the Coop?
Landscaping plays a significant role in influencing snake behavior around chicken coops.
- Dense Vegetation: Thick bushes and tall grass provide an ideal habitat for snakes, making it essential to manage landscaping around coops.
- Mulch and Wood Chips: While they can enhance aesthetics, these materials can also attract rodents, which are a food source for snakes, increasing their presence near coops.
- Open Spaces: Clearing areas around the coop can deter snakes by removing their cover and making them more visible to predators.
- Rock Features: Rock piles or decorative stones can create basking spots for snakes, potentially encouraging them to linger near coops.
- Water Sources: Proximity to ponds or fountains can attract snakes seeking hydration, thereby increasing the likelihood of encounters with coops.
Dense vegetation creates a perfect hiding spot for snakes, allowing them to approach coops without being detected. Maintaining a trimmed and clear perimeter can help reduce snake sightings and their chances of entering the chicken coop.
Mulch and wood chips, while beneficial for soil health, can also attract small mammals like mice and voles, which in turn attract snakes. Using alternative ground cover that doesn’t harbor rodents can help minimize snake attraction to the area.
Open spaces around the coop serve to expose snakes, making it harder for them to approach without being seen. By regularly clearing away any unnecessary plants or debris, you can create an unfriendly environment for snakes.
Rock features may provide both aesthetic appeal and functional habitats for snakes, as they can use them for warmth and shelter. It’s advisable to limit the presence of such features to prevent unwelcome snake activity near the coop.
Water sources can be a magnet for snakes, especially during dry seasons. Keeping the coop away from ponds, streams, or other water bodies can significantly reduce the likelihood of snakes being drawn to the area.
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