How paranoid do I need to be?

[Ibicella]

It depends, if they can sneak off into underbrush, then a coyote, fox, skunk, cat, or dog will easily be able to snatch them secretly.

If you can keep them around you and don't let them wander off (like you're in a netted garden) then I would mostly worry about a hawk.

 

[emys]

I think the biggest gardening risk is the neighbor's dogs, they will not be deterred by your presence.

 

[BrattishTaz]

Hawks will swoop in if they see an opportunity whether you are outside or not. They are the only predator I've lost chickens to. I heard both attacks and just couldn't get there in time.

 

[Tapsmom]

Do hawks go after all types of chickens or are some types large enough to be left alone?

 

[BrattishTaz]

Quote:
Coopers hawks are small but will attack larger birds if they think they can kill them (most often they can). Other hawks will attack adults as well. I have seen BYC members post about red shouldered hawk attacks as well. I have not positively identified the birds that got my very large adult roos. I am thinking they may be juvenile bald eagles.

 

[ketcham]

Well I just lost one to a hawk 15 mins ago.So the threat from above is real!!!. They were sticking close to the house,but it didn't matter.I just come in for a few mins and upon going outside ,I saw the hawk take one off.RATS!!!!! Kevin

I should have known better