If you feel out of the loop while watching the chickens do their thing in the woods, then get on the ground with them. I'd occasionally toss them a treat or two and they'd come in a swarm. I did this when I was a kid and the chickens never went far. Unfortunately, if I do that now, I'd be labeled as a crazy chicken lady and get sent to the sanatorium. I hope they have chickens.
Thanks for posting! They do acknowledge my presence, when I call after them;after being inside for a while.I think they appreciate, and are reassured when I am out there. They are so cute.
Wow you do have some tuff predators to deal with. The bear will rip right into your coop, the best defense against it is a good electric wire. They are very cute good luck with them.