Backyard run with 4' fence

[LD Jackson]

We live right in the middle of a residential neighborhood and plan to keep 15 hens, consisting of Black Australorp, Buff Orpington, Barred Rock, and Rhode Island Red birds. We plan to let them use the entire back yard as a run on the days they are let out. It measures approximately 75' x 65' and it has a 4' fence surrounding the entire area. With the size of the yard, plenty of water and feed, etc., would these size birds be apt to fly out? Given their large size, will they even be able to fly that high? Just trying to get my thoughts together before they are grown and allowed out in the yard.

 

[mljohnson05]

They can Yes....but because of the large size they usually won't

 

[LD Jackson]

Quote:
I like how you worded that. Usually won't? Knowing my luck, they will terrorize the neighbors.

 

[mljohnson05]

Quote:
I like how you worded that. Usually won't? Knowing my luck, they will terrorize the neighbors.

LJ is my initials TOO ...that is to cool

 

[ozark hen]

I have en enclosed 50ft run but my orp roo and two of his fav hens fly over the fence if I don't open the gate for free ranging

 

[LD Jackson]

Quote:
I may have to clip their wings, but I would prefer not to do that, if I can keep from it.

 

[mljohnson05]

You will have to play it by ear

 

[countrychix]

Mine will only attempt to get over the fence if a roo is pesting them until they can't stand it any longer, and then only the gold comets (which are much smaller and lighter) can make it out. If mine are content they will stay put.

Another thing to think about is whether a dog can get in/over?

 

[JulieNKC]

I have a 4-5 foot fence around my yard. There is only a 24" fence seperating the back from the front yard though, and they won't go over that even. My leghorn will go through the fence, but no one goes over.

 

[FiveAcres]

What is the surrounding traffic like?? If there is traffic concerns, my thoughts would be to more protective than reactive after the loss.... maybe clipping is not such a bad idea.