Hawks In Eastern Colorado

[rdranch]

This is probably a silly question, but lately I have noticed a pair of hawks or Falcons near our property. Although their wing span is impressive their body size is at least half the size of our girls. Would a bird of prey attempt to kill a chicken twice it's size. Thet seem to mostly eat snakes and small rodents. Just wondering if I need to put mesh over the top of their run.

 

[Standard Hen]

If their body size is half of your standards I would say they were Falcons as they still have the wingspan and look out as they are FAST!!!!! I would cover the run, they will sooner or later see the chickens and so will the hawks. This way they always have a safe haven even if they free range too. They can be contained if you have a real predator problem and they can run in their pen for cover. And it was not a silly question, this is where we come to learn the "chicken talk".

 

[rdranch]

Thanks for the info. It looks it's a mated pair and they are out every morning at the end of the property on the utility poles looking for breakfast. One of our neighboors just put her house up for sale and got rid of her flock of 30 chickens. Now mine are the featured item on the menu. I will be looking for materials to cover their run. Once again thanks.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

Sometimes, if they can't pick up their prey, they eat it on the ground. I don't think that's their preference. It just depends on how desperate they are, other prey available and how safe the location looks.

It's never a bad idea to boost your defenses!