Hello from eastern Connecticut (U.S.)

[cjbrown63]

We are down to 2 chickens now, and none of them are layers, apparently. We were getting one a day, but that productive RI Red was taken by something last week--possibly a Red-tailed hawk. Those and racoons have cleaned out the rest of our brood over the past 1.5 years. It's a dilemma--do we let them out of their coop every day, which they love, or keep them cooped up!? My kids, particularly my 8-yr old son loves observing them, and knows (knew) all the traits of the chickens and had them named. At one point we had 8.
Any others in my area have issues with particular predators?

 

[Ms.FuzzyButts]

from Alabama.. Glad you joined.

 

[M To The Maxx]

 

[Cindiloohoo]

sorry for all your losses! Maybe we all can help you find some solutions. There is TONS of info regarding predation and coop construction on here!

 

[4-H chicken mom]

and

from Ohio. Anytime we let our birds free range we take the risk, but they are happier that way. I am now trying to cover their run so I can keep them safe. Good Luck.

 

[usschicago1]

From Taunton MA!

 

[texasgal]

A big Texas sized ..

You'll love it here!

 

[texasgal]

.. double post ..

 

[heyeddah]

Hi from Milford Ct. Been there done that. Built my third coop with a very secure outdoor run. I get 6-7 eggs a day from 8 girls of varying breeds.and one silkie rooster. My boys love them too. We let them out in the yard supervised daily. Red hawks and raccoons seem to be the main problems in Ct, but don't rule out the skunk, possum and neighbor's dog. The best remedy is to make your coop secure, because for every predator you catch or eliminate, there are at least 4-5 more to take its place. Welcome, read on the info is free and so is all the advice, use what you can and share what you learn, but have fun!

 

[Gonzo]

from Indiana!