Hawk problems!

[bertie]

What can be done to prevent Hawks from getting my chickens?
I heard something about using a owl decoy to scare them away does this work? any ideas??
Thanks Bertie

 

[bargain]

I've heard that an animal trap on a very high pole works. PM me if you have questions. Thanks.

 

[Splash_Guard]

The only thing that ever worked for me was a shotgun.

 

[Chickenaddict]

Isn't it illegal to shoot or trap hawks?

 

[lobb40118]

There is a post in the predator section about the legality of Hawk problems.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=113482

 

[ronshoney]

People around here shoot them when need be too.... someone told me black garbage bags tied to blow around the area where the chickens are will keep them away, but I don't know.

 

[amazondoc]

It is a federal offense to kill any bird of prey, unless you have already obtained a depredation permit from the Fish and Wildlife Service. The penalty can range up to several thousand dollars, and even jail time.

In order to obtain a depredation permit, amongst other things you must first prove that you have already tried a range of NON-lethal methods to discourage the bird.

The best defense is a secure pen/run, with netting or wire over the top. Other defenses include hanging CDs or other shiny objects around your chicken yard, stringing twine overhead, livestock guardian dogs, and simply providing extra shelter for your birds to hide under.