Melissa_WV
In the Brooder
- Jul 20, 2018
- 12
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I live in the hilly middle of West Virginia. Raised chickens as a kid and have just gotten back into it in the past year. I live in "predator holler" and have lost chickens to raccoon, possum, neighbor dogs and who knows what else. I have implemented some security measures and I am hoping for no more losses to predators. My main reason to join is for buy/sell/trade with other people in or near WV. I also want to learn more....the article about eggs, blush, and washing in water only was an eye opener.
I think most people who raise poultry loose birds to predators. I have lost birds to coyotes, fox, bobcat and an owl. With each loss I tightened my security with my coops and pens. Heavy duty netting over the top of all of the pens to discourage the owls, concrete under the gates because of a fox, electric wire around the pens and coops for the coyotes, bobcats, possums and anything else that wants to dig or climb, they have to get by the electric first. I haven't lost a bird in a quite long time to a predator. I have game cameras around my property to see what critters are roaming around especially at night. I had my first flock around 50 years ago. I enjoy watching the birds and how they have different personalities. Your state doesn't seem to have any farm type swap meets. I have a couple I started in my community. I love them and a great way to meet people with the same passion. Good luck and have fun...
I have learned SOOO much from this site, and I hope that you do too!
