Hi there, first time poster. I am looking into getting some chickens. I will be living on 1/2 acre in town. I would like to let my chickens run free at times under supervision. What i would like to know is, how do I keep them from running off into the neighbors' yards, and how do I get them back in the coop? I know about the movable coops and think those are a great option. Just wondering if anyone knows any good chicken herding tips. Thanks! NEVERMIND! Just saw the "chasing chickens" post. sorry! question answered
Initially you'll need to keep your chickens in the coop for a few days to a week so that they know it's home. After that, they should return every night at dusk -- if you want to get them back in earlier than that, you'll have to develop your skills as a chicken wrangler. Keeping them out of the neighbors' yards will require a fence that they aren't tempted to fly over. Heavy breed birds rarely feel the need to fly unless they're missing out on a treat. Light breeds can get into trees, so you'd have to cover your yard with bird netting to keep them home.
I live in town on 1/2 acre and my chickens stay in the yard with only 3 ft high cheap fencing that I put up myself. I do have the coop fenced with it's own smaller section but I usually let them run the whole yard.
