I can't find anywhere else to put this post, so here goes, directions please lol

[LaylaJane]

First, I'm sure I'm not in the right place for this post, but every time I try to search a thread related to my question, it takes me to the wrong kind of "crow".

That being said, I have a murder who visit my yard every single day. There are probably 8-10 of them. Should I be concerned about them around my chickens, even in the coop/run? I know they are smart, but will they be a problem for my flock once I let my littles out into the run? I've seen them steal a bluejays babies, so I'm kind of worried. Thanks!

 

[MGG]

First, I'm sure I'm not in the right place for this post, but every time I try to search a thread related to my question, it takes me to the wrong kind of "crow".

That being said, I have a murder who visit my yard every single day. There are probably 8-10 of them. Should I be concerned about them around my chickens, even in the coop/run? I know they are smart, but will they be a problem for my flock once I let my littles out into the run? I've seen them steal a bluejays babies, so I'm kind of worried. Thanks!

If they can get into your run I would enclose it immediately. Not only for biosecurity but they absolutely will eat anything weak or small enough for them to kill. They would definitely eat chicks if given the chance, and they will steal and eat eggs too.

 

[PasoRoblesEgger]

Off topic - we have a group of crows that moved into some nearby oak trees last summer. They land once in a while in the pine tree in our yard, or on the power poles, but haven't proven to be a nuisance. One thing I did notice - there seem to be no more hawks around. Prior to the crows moving in, we had five hens killed in one day while free ranging. It was a Sunday, we left for Church and came home two hours later to a massacre.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Whether or not they will kill and eat your babies depends on how big they are. I don't have a set safe age and I don't know if yours are bantams or full-sized fowl anyway. They will eat eggs. If they can get to your chicken feed they will devour that. The only good thing about them is that they tend to chase off hawks.

I don't know where you are located. Here in the USA each state sets its own regulations about them. In many states they are not protected and may be taken any time of the year. But you need to check your own regulations.

 

[LaylaJane]

If they can get into your run I would enclose it immediately. Not only for biosecurity but they absolutely will eat anything weak or small enough for them to kill. They would definitely eat chicks if given the chance, and they will steal and eat eggs too.

Thank you! I personally don't mind them being here now, but I surely don't want anything to happen to my babies!