Can I let 2-3 chickens free roam the backyard during a school day?

[RanO2]

Hello!
I am in High School and interested in chickens. I was wondering if it is ok to let 2-3 chickens free roam the backyard during the school day which typically last from 8am - 4pm. I am very worried about predators, and don't know if they will attack during that time. I hope I would never have a rat problem, since I cannot bear to kill them, since I have pet rats, but I plan to leave the rat era, and enter the chicken era XD. And how much maintance would 2-3 chickens require? I have spare time in the morning, weekends, and evening/night (And of course, summer!). And does anyone have any tips or good designs for chicken coops? Thanks so much for answering!

 

[Mattemma]

Coop and run is needed.Hawks or dogs can get your chickens during the day even if you are nearby!Even in a fenced yard.Time required for care is short.Lots of coop/run ideas posted on this site.Have fun.

 

[cary 1973]

I think it depends on where you live.

 

[arcatamarcia]

My four chickens free range in my back yard all day every day while I'm at work. But you do have to worry about predators. My yard is small, fully fenced, and has several trees and shrubs where the chickens can take cover from hawks. But I also have dogs who protect them from neighborhood cats or anything else that might think about coming into my yard. The time commitment is not that much. Good luck.