Wondering what is the "least worst" to do..... The coop is in a predator and bird-proof run. I let the 4 chickens out to free range for 3-4 hours in the afternoon and, until recently, propped the door to the run open. Initially I did this becasue I thought they might dash there if startled - but they usually dash to the closest shrubbery, under tables etc. They do, however, return ocassionally to eat and drink. I keep a clean water source for them in the garden also.
Now crested pigeons have found the run when the door is open and saunter in for a feed. Should I (1) shut the door, maybe have a little feed outside with the water, though there's plenty of bugs and greens for them. They aren't laying yet but looking close and are 22 weeks old. Does this risk them laying eggs in hidden places in the garden? Or (2) leave the run door open so they can get to nesting boxes, but remove the two feeders. They're fairly light so I guess I could place them in the coop so they're quick to move. Assuming pigeons wouldn't walk up the ramp to eat in a dark, enclosed place. The downside here is the pigeons can eat the scraps on the floor (no big deal as the girls aren't too messy) but also spread mites and other problems.
I'm hoping for an egg any day now so really don't want to do anything to prevent them learning the right place to lay. Your thoughts will be appreciated!
Now crested pigeons have found the run when the door is open and saunter in for a feed. Should I (1) shut the door, maybe have a little feed outside with the water, though there's plenty of bugs and greens for them. They aren't laying yet but looking close and are 22 weeks old. Does this risk them laying eggs in hidden places in the garden? Or (2) leave the run door open so they can get to nesting boxes, but remove the two feeders. They're fairly light so I guess I could place them in the coop so they're quick to move. Assuming pigeons wouldn't walk up the ramp to eat in a dark, enclosed place. The downside here is the pigeons can eat the scraps on the floor (no big deal as the girls aren't too messy) but also spread mites and other problems.
I'm hoping for an egg any day now so really don't want to do anything to prevent them learning the right place to lay. Your thoughts will be appreciated!
