Hawk threat

[Jessd0911]

I just discovered a coolers hawk nest in my back yard area. I’ve seen them mate twice today so I’m sure they’re building the nest and having babies. How much concern should I have? Will they stay for long? I always give my girls about an hour of free range time each night. Should I stop this? Tell me what I need to know please and thank you!!

 

[theoldchick]

That's a good reason to keep them up. You might consider constructing and outdoor chicken run with a roof for your chickens. I also have hawks that nest nearby and while they do eye my cooped chickens they do a great job on rodent control.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

They will stay at least until the nestlings mature enough to successfully leave the nest. They will need plenty of meat once the eggs hatch so yes, keep your chickens confined and protected.

 

[ABQ chicken keeper]

I just discovered a coolers hawk nest in my back yard area. I’ve seen them mate twice today so I’m sure they’re building the nest and having babies. How much concern should I have? Will they stay for long? I always give my girls about an hour of free range time each night. Should I stop this? Tell me what I need to know please and thank you!!

I assume you mean "Coopers Hawk"?

 

[Jessd0911]

I assume you mean "Coopers Hawk"?

Sorry yes. Phone changed it lol

 

[Jessd0911]

That's a good reason to keep them up. You might consider constructing and outdoor chicken run with a roof for your chickens. I also have hawks that nest nearby and while they do eye my cooped chickens they do a great job on rodent control.

We have a safe run but it’s dirt and I love having an hour of free time with them in the evenings. It’s my time I look forward to all day. This is so sad for me and my girls!

 

[ABQ chicken keeper]

We have a safe run but it’s dirt and I love having an hour of free time with them in the evenings. It’s my time I look forward to all day. This is so sad for me and my girls!

Coopers hawk are not big enough to carry an adult chicken, a pigeon yes. In town (ABQ) the hawks hunt pigeons and do a great job of keeping the pigeons off guard and on the move. I would continue to let your chicken enjoy their "hour of free time" as long as you are with them.