Cull by hawk? *Answered* Thank you

[ayamfeather12]

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This could very well be the case, but it is something I would like to know more about. (I would disagree with the first part about caring for my animals, though I would question whether humans killing chicks is better than it being done by animals that are built to prey on them.)

Death by a bird of prey involves fear, and is often not a quick think, yes the hawk carries it off, but then it involves holding the prey in 1 claw while plucking and eating the breast meat and innards, the prey dies during this process but not always at the start. Then the prey bird discards the carcasses so scavengers (racoons, foxes, minks, etc.) will have a meal, which brings more predators to your place. Than in a month you're be on the predators thraed asking "why" and we'll say "because you fed them". Really you'll want to save the time and hassle.

Thanks for letting me know. (I don't have experience with birds of prey, and this was informative for me.)

 

[redhen]

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Thats a better idea...

 

[BrattishTaz]

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Thanks for mentioning fish and game, I'll try to see what I can find about it but if anyone knows specifically if feeding hawks is prohibited, I'd like to know too.

Intentionally feeding a bird of prey is a federal crime. You are not allowed to interact with them at all.

 

[maxxsmommy]

If you seriously dont want these birds then why dont you give them away instead. I know i would love more chickens!!

 

[ayamfeather12]

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I like that suggestion. Thank you silkiechicken, you have offered a lot of thoughtful suggestions, and I really appreciate your willingness to discuss practical aspects and solutions.

I felt that this was an important subject that would benefit from discussing with others who have more experience and knowledge of hawks than I do, and I was not trying to be inflammatory, although I realize that quick anger might be an unavoidable part of it. Still, I think it was worth asking, for the information and suggestions I've received from this thread.

 

[ranchhand]

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Thanks for mentioning fish and game, I'll try to see what I can find about it but if anyone knows specifically if feeding hawks is prohibited, I'd like to know too.

Intentionally feeding a bird of prey is a federal crime. You are not allowed to interact with them at all.

Yes, fines start around $5000.00 or so? And it's a Federal offense, not state.

 

[ayamfeather12]

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Thanks for telling me

 

[Carrie Lynn]

Culling them yourself would be a lot kinder...hawk kills can be gruesome.
What about listing them as freebies on Craig's List?

 

[Mother_Hen2011]

I bought 6 chicks from tractor supply in April. I told my DH that I didnt want any roosters... Out of the 6 we got 3 roos. I got 3 hens... I have 2 roos seperated from the others. The bicker with each other but havent gotten their spurs yet. My DH said he would shoot the two seprated from the others so we dont have any fights. I said NO I will find them homes. I have yet to find anyone to take them. I take very good care of them. They dont go a day without a decent meal. When my hens start laying and hatching eggs*Which is why I got them in the first place* Any roos will be either given away or sold to a responsible owner. Culling is not in my vocabulary as far as my chicken experience (Which I agree has been very long. This is my first time owning chickens and ducks.) I have to say that culling a baby chick breaks my heart. Even though I know that sometimes it is impossible to keep them all. But would you really want to subject these adorable little critters to death that is for sure horrible. I couldnt even fathom what those little baby chicks would be thinking....If you could find a very human way of culling them or rehome them it would be tons better!! I do not agree with this method and no one can change my mind. If you do this you dont deserve to have pets. Not trying to be rude but.. I mean thats my opinion. I think that giving them to a predator rehab center something would be good. They would be put down humanly and than feed to the predators. Also, see if you can find a zoo that could use them for their predators birds or snakes or something..... Just please dont just leave them out and have them take them off..

 

[magicpigeon]

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X2 I sell my "mutty" cockerels as "hybrids" and "good birds for eating". You never know, it really depends what type of bantams you own. I sold all 5 silkie cockerels from this year NYD hatch for $15 each