Is Free-ranging even an option???

[Picco]

I can't free range where I live now becasue of dogs. I plan to build a large pasture for them with 5 foot wire fencing. This will keep them away from dogs and most day time predators. I lock mine indoors at dusk so I don't have to worry about anything at night. I have decent sized runs now but they would really like to get out on grass so thats why I'm building the fence. I would free range if I could but I would have to deal with heavy losses from the dog. Hawks really aren't too much of a problem if your hens have hiding places. They usually keep a pretty good eye on the sky and run for cover if needed. A few shrubs or plywood A-frames will work well. Keeping a rooster or two is really helpful. Mine have saved my hens countless times. The roosters usually keep a better eye on things and they usually run after predators which gives the hens time to escape. Pasturing poultry is a really good option. You can even by electric poultry netting so you can move the fence as needed to offer them fresh grass.

 

[ruth]

Yes, the key to real free ranging is having a good guard dog or two (we actually have two dogs that stay out and chase off varmits but Rex gets most of the credit). They don't allow anything anywhere near the house. We also have 3 cats (had 4) that intermingle with the chickens at all times. Of course the dogs and cats can't help with hawks but the chickens know what to do when they see hawks. While I love all 13 chickens and would hate to lose any I love the way they run around totally free. If I did lose one or all I would be sad but I would buy more - actually have 35 in bator now and can't wait till Spring to buy more babies. Having chickens running around is so much fun and now that we have a real barn and stables and numerous out buildings - I can have an unlimited amount.

There's just something special about walking around property with a bunch of chickens around your feet following you like they LOVE you so. Just wouldn't be the same if they were cooped up.

 

[McGoo]

When it's time, and if you have the type of land for them to find cover, I say let them free range. If you only have open fields, get an old picnic table or two and put them out in the middle. They'll use them for cover.

I let mine free range and yes, I've lost one this year to a hawk, but I feel that the benefits outweigh the downside of keeping them penned up.

Either way, as long as they are well cared for, I'm sure they'll be happy.

 

[DrakeMaiden]

I couldn't agree with you more, Ruth.