Hawk got 7 week old chick...so mad at myself. Bushes?

[Folly's place]

Juvenile chicks are easy prey; small enough to carry, and too fearless, especially the cockrels. Lock those babies in a hawk-proof run for a couple of weeks, then supervise while they are out for a while. Lots of shrubs will be helpful; plant stuff that appeals to you and grows fast. The birds will also appreciate the shade, and like hanging out under spruces, too Some losses to predators are unavoidable if the birds free range during the day. I'm happy to shoot raccoon, possums, etc, but NOT raptors. Mary

 

[Joshua G]

keesmom is right on the money. Yes, purportedly permits for removing raptors can be obtained, but I have NEVER heard of one being issued. On any number of posts, I have asked for someone who has gotten a permit to contact me - that has never happened.

I contacted my state wildlife and they said that (because my friend is a licensed falconer) they would issue a permit to my friend if I thought it was necessary to remove hawks from my land. I would have done it but, the hawks live in our neighbors woods.

 

[centrarchid]

I am fairly new to raising a backyard flock. I bought my hens last November, and then I bought 12 chicks about 7 weeks ago. Today, I had put my chicks out to range with the big girls like I have been for the past week. I was out with them for a while then had to get my two toddlers ready. I kept checking on the chicks every 10 minutes or so. The last time I went to check I could no longer see them so I ran outside. Counted them all huddled together in the playhouse and there were only 11. I searched for the other when I heard a hawk. Saw one overhead at the back of the property and one on the ground. I ran that way, and the hawk took off. Sure enough, it had killed the baby chick. I am so mad at myself. That poor chick must have been terrified. I moved them all back inside and have now been watching my adult hens very closely.

I am hoping to go to a nursery today and get some bushes for the chickens to hide in. Any ideas about a good fast growing bush that I can put in the middle of the yard?

Leave hawk alone as others indicated. Bushes with qualities desired for providing refuge will not look good in a front yard and would be very expensive to buy. Would also take more than one. Finally a hawk will pursue 7-week old jiuveniles on foot into the bushes even if present. Bushes work great if someone is wetting inside for the hawk and is willing to take him on while hawk is on ground. That means fully adult standard sized rooster. Otherwise, take your hits unless birds are confined.