Is it time?

[poolcoping]

I have had my pullets for about a month now in the hen house and since the weather is warming I'm considering leting them range for a few hours. They were born on Xmas so they are almost 4months old now and geting big! They are very content and happy birds but I think they would benifit from being in the field. I worry about predetors hiding in the old cars and tractors in the field a lot cause I would hate to loose a bird cause my flock is small (7hens 1rooster). I also have chickens next door and worry that they may get away under the fence(7ft high). I must also mention this is my 1st flock So I'm not sure if my concerns are just or if I am worring to much? Also I have goats in the field so is that a problem? Please help BYC friends!!!!!!

 

[Judy]

Quote:
Personal choice. There is always risk in free range, but it is their natural condition.

Goats are not usually a problem. The chickens do need some sunlight. Chickens do not usually fly above 7', but some do; you did not give breeds.

Good luck.

 

[poolcoping]

Sorry I have New Hamshire Reds

 

[Jena]

have you considered giving them a run....an enclosed space where they will be safe and protected.

I do this with my girls, they come out everyday into their run and when I am working out in the garden I let them free range, then I can kep an eye on them. But I am sure the goats would deter some predators.

I know it is a panic when you are new to all of this, I was afraid of them running away but they tend to stay near me in the hope of treats and if I am digging, they stick like glue. lol....

Good luck.

 

[BorderKelpie]

I tried the free range thing and it was a disaster. Stray dogs are a nightmare! The hawks helped themselves to a few, too.
I now keep mine in a covered chain link dog kennel, but one of them is allowed to help us in the garden, we put her in a wire dog crate while we are working outside so she can work the garden soil with us. Good luck with your flock!

 

[poolcoping]

Stray dogs aren't an issue here I have 10 old Family Red Nose dogs of my own in a seperate field.The fields are 3 acres each and enclosed with 7ft cyclone fencing(both fields)

There are hawks here and Bald Eagles aswell which is a concern but The field over from mine the owners have a 17 bird flock which they have had for years. In those years they have never lost 1 bird free ranging but she has 10 goats with them! I'm not sure if that helps detour birds of prey abit or not but they seem happy and I wanna let my birds explore the field and world like their birds get to. Hmmm maybe I will build them a pen till the flock grows?