Hawks and Vultures in Maryland

[ChixRock]

So- the second time I have let my babies (8 weekers) run around the yard "unsupervised". I got out and check on them every 10-15 minutes. Today- I came out and there were 20-30 large birds- vultures, I am assuming. I am trying to tell myself that they were not flying in circles over my property to catch my lovely chicks. HOWEVER- common sense is telling me that they were!!!! It makes me sick to my stomach to envision these birds attacking my little ones. Am I in denial? Does anyone live in MD, and also have trouble with large birds attacking their chickens? Will I ever be able to let my chickens "free range" around my fenced in acre of property? I am hoping a plastic owl from Tractor- Supply will resolve this issue... Any suggestions?

Amy

Mama of 1 Plymouth Rock, 1 Barred Rock, 1 Buff Orpington, 1 Rhode Island Red and 1 little Golden Laced Cochin Bantam.

 

[SirFarmAlot]

I think you are talking about I call buzzard. I don't believe they are any threat to your chickens. I think they pretty much eat carrion.

 

[iluvsedward]

Hey neighbor!

I have never had a problem with vultures, however I have lost 2 chickens to a hawk. (redtail, i believe)

 

[Two Creeks Farm]

They were Buzzards more then likely. The Owl wont worry Buzzards, but they will attract Crows which in turn love to harrass hawks. Get a few Crow decoys and move them every few days to keep the hawks geussing.