We had our first loss today to a Hawk - Our chickens have their coop, a run that is 10x20 and a fenced yards that is partially under the trees. They were in their outside yard when we lost the hen. Would it deter the hawk if were were to put up beach umbellas in their yardl. My thought is that the hawk couldn't swoop down. Any thoughts? thanks in advance...... Lisa
Here is what I ended up doing I have a breeding pair of hawks living in the woods [/IMG] I strung deer netting and fishing line all over the open run, they do have two enclosed runs I use when I'm not home. The run that is covered like a spider web has deer net as fencing to keep them from wondering off.
I read that it helps to have bushes and undergrowth for the hens to run to. The crows in our area chase off the hawks.
I have something similar to mskayladog. I have an 8'X8' shade shelter, its about 4' tall. I took 10' lengths of pvc pipe which I put upright into the ground. At the top of those, I attached fishing line that extends out to the perimeter fence. On the fishing line I put lengths of colored rope that I frayed so that it moves alot in the wind. That is all that is in the area and I have not seen any hawks even circling. I have had losses to hawks. The first was right outside of the coop after I moved a shade cloth and the others were out in the pasture. Good luck.
hello, i would simply buy a strong netting/mesh and secure it over the top to prevent preditors,make sure there are no gaps for anything to get in or out though,sorry about your loss by the way x
Underbrush is good cover but hawks will pursue sometimes. If fully adult rooster(s) present, they then become another level of protection when cover is available to operate from. If living plant cover is not present, then takes time to establish with the kind I like taking a good three years.
