Raptor numbers were very low thanks to DDT and overhunting and habitat loss, especially the DDT, years ago. This discussion has me wondering if they have recovered enough to change some of the restrictions on them. They are so needed for rodent patrol, and generally good for the environment. There are many fewer wild predators out there, mostly us and our dogs and cats, not the native critters. Chickens need protection from everyone, and if free ranging, losses are inevitable. Over the years, hawks have been the least of it here. Mary
