I should have known better...pigeon hawk!

[darbella]

Fortunately I live where I can shoot but I would never shoot a bird of prey or any other animal, maybe a fox or coyote if I caught them in the yard. I understand the consequences of free ranging, even within a fenced piece of property that is quite large! I am just sad to know that she probably was eaten while still alive seeing as this hawk was smaller thatn she was. Hopefully she went into shock fast or it was strong for it's small size, and the kill was quick. My friend had a red tail hawk crash land and break its neck going after the birds at her birdfeeders the other day, she called fish and game and told them and they said as long as it was not shot that she could dispose of it as she wished. So she asked for permission to have it taxidermied and they said only if she wanted to pay a steep fine or go to jail!

 

[NateinFL]

Please dont fall into a false sense of security with CDs. Especially now that the hawk knows he can get a very good meal at your place. CDs alone will not keep them away, hawks are very crafty hunters and it would be best to have your chickens locked up unless they are under supervision. Especially for the next week or two. Good luck. -Nathan

 

[darbella]

Yes I agree, especially when i think it probably stalked the chickens while they hang under the deck and amongst the patio furniture! What a crafty little bugger it was and only a tiny raptor at that! The chickens have now resorted to another corner of under the deck. It amazes me that they know the far corner was where the incedent happened and now are hiding under a seed spreader, and stack of folding chairs with a tarp over them!

 

[Mahonri]

We've had two hawks stalking our five week old chicks all week. My son shooting a pellet gun at the to scare them away has worked so far.

I hate that I have to let my 38 chicks free range but I have no other place big enough for all of them.

 

[darbella]

Quote:
You can get in a lot of trouble for shooting at birds of prey even to scare them. Please read the other thread posted today about that!