covered pens

[kayer]

We are new to raising chickens, and I'm getting ready to move the 3-4 week old chicks outside. Should the pen be covered?

 

[sourland]

Absolutely! Chicks of that age/size are particularly vulnerable to raptor attack.

 

[kayer]

Thank you. Would it make a
difference if it is located close to the house and has a fairly dense tree cover

 

[sourland]

I have had hawks attack birds that were feeding at my feet. When hungry, they can be fearless and relentless.

 

[sumi]

Welcome to BYC

Glad you joined us! If you have birds of prey in your area it's a good idea to cover their run, if possible.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

Sourland X2 When hawks are hungry, they can show no fear. Same with raccoons, badgers, coyotes, Bobcats, and skunks. When they have their eyes on prey, they can ignore your presence. So I would cover your run. If you live in an area with high predator counts, you may not even be able to free range. I can't let any of my birds out with out constant supervision due to lots of lurking predators.

Enjoy this new journey you are on and welcome to our flock!

 

[Blooie]

Covering your run now will save you the combination of anger, grief, and covering your run later. Better to do it before a loss than after. That tree cover you have will do a better job of hiding predators and giving them a jumping-off place than it will to protect your chickens.

 

[Cincinnati Jim]

I have even seen on Youtube where a hawk went in after a chicken under the raised chicken house, the yard was not covered.

 

[sourland]

I have even seen on Youtube where a hawk went in after a chicken under the raised chicken house, the yard was not covered.

I once had a hawk drive a pigeon into my cellar while I was at the cellar way sweeping the stairs. The broom quickly dissuaded the hawk.

 

[gander007]

These guys normally keep the hawks away but as mamma and poppa had 4 additions my chicks are not allowed to free range so I would recommend a cover over the coop and run area ......