Alternatives to livestock guardian dog

[ghislaincote]

Hello all,

Since we have more and more ducks, we are considering to get an animal that could become our livestock guardian.

Do you have experience with livestock guardians other than dogs ? If so, please share your experience.

Thanks !

 

[SueT]

A scarecrow that moves in the wind might also help. I have no proof that it works except that when a neighbor stopped by, she walked over to it thinking it was me, . It is made on a coat hanger and can be moved to various locations during a day to create more uncertainty.

 

[SueT]

Some people use donkeys for guardian animals. I had a donkey when I had guineas, and they got along very well. The guineas did not always stay in the donkey pasture, but I guess that could be arranged.
I don't know how they rate on protection compared to dogs, and some individuals may be better than others. Donkeys, like other animals, require training and care. (for example proper hoof care is crucial)

 

[Miss Lydia]

Around here just about every pasture with livestock has donkeys 1-2 they must work well.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

A scarecrow that moves in the wind might also help. I have no proof that it works except that when a neighbor stopped by, she walked over to it thinking it was me, . It is made on a coat hanger and can be moved to various locations during a day to create more uncertainty.
View attachment 2004720

My dog would bark her head off at that, and that would certainly keep the coyotes away!

 

[Miss Lydia]

Isn’t a stoat a member of the weasel family?

 

[chickens really]

Well I'm not thinking anything other than Lahma or Donkey if your not wanting a dog. Although they are not fool proof either. Safe nightly lock ups are best.

 

[DiYMama540]

My kitty brought me a stoat home not too long ago. I had no idea what it was but the folks on the predators forum did!

My in laws have a farm with cows and horses, and one crazy guard donkey! He will kick and scream at anything out of the ordinary

 

[chickenlittle21]

You can put a owl statue on top of a pole or you could get a outdoor barn cat

 

[cluckmecoop7]

I heard that guineas can be good guard animals. They set off alarm when ever something strange comes near.