Are white birds really that more susceptible to predators?

[Cowgirl71]

Everyone around here says not to keep white chickens because they are more susceptible to predators. I really want to get some White Rocks. If I keep them locked up in a predator proof coop overnight, and let them free range during the day, do you think they'll do alright? The only daytime predators in this area are hawks, and they're pretty scarce in my particular area.

What do you all think?

 

[Imp]

I heard and believed the same thing. I asked around and got a lot of weird looks. Lol! Got a white rock cross over 2 years ago. Haven't had any problem.

Imp

 

[Cowgirl71]

Thanks! I still crack up every time I see your signature and it reminds me of your story about the PINK bag of layer feed, LOL!

Also, I just read my post through, and just wanted to clarify that when I say "Everyone around here," what I mean is "Everyone in my area." Just so no one thought I'm referring to other BYCers, LOL!

 

[Illia]

I think if you've got good watch or protection of some sort over them, they're fine. . . And free ranging white birds mixed with other colors that blend well is always a plus. I have just ONE white bird (actually a dom white masking lightly over duckwing) in with my free ranging flock; Never had predator issues.

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

I have white birds mixed in with my others...

We have hawks. I like to see the beautiful white color mixed in. They have shelter to run under, though, in case they see a hawk.

 

[Imp]

Quote:
That's funny, I'm thinking about changing it. I'm getting some PMs about Silkies and making pink ones. Not to speak of the gender identity issues.

About white chickens- Seems predators have no trouble with brown, black, grey etc colored chickens.

Imp

 

[Beekissed]

Never had a white chicken removed by predators. Actually, the only two chickens I've ever had killed by predators were two dark colored chickens removed by hawks.

White Rocks are really big girls....they are difficult to tote off the ground and across the sky.

I say, get your WRs and let them free range per usual. I have and they have thrived well here for the past 3 years. I had Brahmas and White Leghorns before this and they also did not get snatched by predators.

 

[centrarchid]

Chickens, regardless of coloration are very prominent on the landscape (easy to detect). Most do not make appropriate responses to predators regardless of coloration. Cannot fly well enough to avoid most four-legged diurnal predators or do not have access to suitable cover when dealing with aerial predators. Chickens for most part are not athletic enough for color to make difference once they are detected.

A white jungle fowl on other hand is likely to be another story. Jungle fowl are physically and mentally capable of making a predator work for its dinner. A white bird is going to be easier to detect and track during chase.

 

[NellaBean]

Have never lost a white bird to predation......but have lost a handful of darker birds. However, my white birds have been attacked by hawks multiple times. They're just really good at defending themselves. Sure seems like they are easier to see in anything but snow.

 

[gryeyes]

I heard the same thing, and resisted getting any white chickens. Then I saw Delawares. Ooooooh. Me want one! And then, saw photos of white EEs. Oh my. Keep trying to get one, and they grow up with other colors in their feathering (but are still gorgeous).

Nowr I have a light brahma, too.

I sure like the contrast in my very varied flock.

And they all range freely.