free range

[wallacefan]

How do i keep the chickens close when they are free ranging?

When i let them out of the run they go into the woods way way way into the woods.

Mark

 

[Duckfarmer8903]

I had this problem with my chickens also in the end I bought a couple of metal gates and gated them in and I moved the gates every two days I have a lot of gates to keep the in safe and they will still be able to walk about in a wide space not very cost effective but it works

 

[Eggscoozme]

How do i keep the chickens close when they are free ranging?

When i let them out of the run they go into the woods way way way into the woods.

Mark

Hi Mark,

I have chickens that can wander out of sight. We live on acreage that is mostly wooded; however, the woods are red pine stands, so seeing below their canopy is quite easy. Despite being able to see below the tree's canopies, the bracken ferns that stand about 2-3ft high can keep the chickens safe from predators - but I'm not able to see the chickens.

I've found giving treats during the day time, periodically, can encourage them to stay around. Also, having a spot for them to dust bathe, or look into a mirror/glass can keep them nearby.

I thought mine liked me so much that THAT was the reason they would wind up on the patio deck by the door.......well, turns out it was them seeing their reflection that kept them coming back. Ha ha,

 

[Weehopper]

Lol! Also, don't keep your feed containers on your porch or your birds will start to "live" there.

 

[Eggscoozme]

and do not leave dog food on porch either hee hee