Fence height

[sr999]

I have silkies. The adults don't seem at all interested in trying to fly, much less jump a fence. But when they're young & just fully feathered, they like to test their new wings, try to get airborne, jump around alot, etc. I *doubt* they could clear a 4' fence tho. Even 3' might be adequate. They aren't very inclined to go exploring, either. Enjoy your new silkies - they really are a fun breed!

 

[sr999]

Taller fence with netting over the top to keep hawks, owls, eagles etc out. Tall enough so your not crawling to get one of your chickens that might need help.......

Oh, good point! I have lost silkies to flying predators a couple of times. Their small size & light weight makes them more appealing than big chickens. Make sure they have a readily avail. place to run & hide. I have a small stand of wild plum bushes in their yard that they love to hang out under. I also have a mixed flock, w/ standard sized layers.

 

[cbhunter777]

I installed a 4 foot fence and some of my chickens (leghorn, Rhode Island Red) flew out and were killed by my dog. In retrospect I wish I would have gone 5 feet. The chickens that are left (dominique, Campine and Australorp) seem to be content staying in the fence. I also started throwing them some scratch feed in the morning to make staying in the fenced area more attractive. So far so good.

I have 4 Andalusians and that fly right over my 7 ft. fence so I put a light weight net over it and no problems. I have 2 Silkies and 2 frizzles that can "kinda flY' about 3 ft. off the ground for a yard or so. My 4 Cinnamon Queens showed little interest in flying over about 4 ft. high through the run. I think it is pretty breed dependent. Never had Guineas but have heard you have a real problem keeping them anywhere.

 

[Aunt Angus]

I have 4 Andalusians and that fly right over my 7 ft. fence so I put a light weight net over it and no problems. I have 2 Silkies and 2 frizzles that can "kinda flY' about 3 ft. off the ground for a yard or so. My 4 Cinnamon Queens showed little interest in flying over about 4 ft. high through the run. I think it is pretty breed dependent. Never had Guineas but have heard you have a real problem keeping them anywhere.

Good to know. I have 2 silkies coming in June and 1 "hatchery choice" bantam. I will have to reassess my fencing needs once I know what that mystery chick is.