Hawk Problem

[Gonzo]

I see hawks... I see them ALL the time.. Really, I can't even put the chicks out to play in their play yard because the stupid hawks start swarmin' low around the yard... Even when we stay out there with them, they hang around.. I don't know what I can do aside from shootin' at'em to keep them away! Got any hawk deterrant idea's ?

 

[Judy]

Best is a covered run. People also use old CD's and similar shiny objects to deter them. If you are considering shooting, best to research the legal implications -- I understand it is a felony unless you have a permit, which is expensive and difficult to get, but have not really looked into this.

I'm sure if you do a search you will find other ideas. We have a few around but they don't seem to bother the chickens.

 

[Gonzo]

Thanks! I planned on a covered run, just don't like'm hang around. I do have a gun permit, but wouldn't ever shoot one. It was just a medafore.. I do have lots of old cd's laying around... where would they go? On top of the run?

 

[AmyBella]

I think the idea is to have the CD's dangling so that they are constantly in motion. THe hawks get scared off by the reflections. My chicks (7 wk olds) have been out in their new tractor for about a week now. They love to escape and range around the yard when I get home from work. Unfortunately, I can't let them anymore... The hawks are literally waiting for me to open their door!

Other deterrants that I found on the forum besides CD's are
-Fishing line criss-crossed back and forth across the top of the run
-Attract crows by feeding them bread regularly. They'll chase off the raptors
-Get a dog, goats, or a big ol' turkey!
-A fake owl (many said this doesn't work even if you move it around every day
-Make sure there are plenty of chicken hiding places around the yard.