Is my backyard fence enough?

[happylittlehens]

I have 10 hens that roam outside in a 1/8 acre area surrounded by 6' fences. It is surrounded by neighbors yards, so not technically "out in the open". I live in a rural neighborhood, so not may predators besides the occasional stray dog that couldn't get in anyways. I do have 1 or 2 girls that have jumped the fence, then they go crazy trying to get back in But I haven't had any problems. I think it really depends on what type of predators you have in your area and how easily they can access your girls.

 

[beththornton]

Thank you, Chicken Friends, for the counsel on Chicken Freedom. It is such a decision for me. My husband has gone to buy a gate wide enough to move the Hen House through to the fenced yard. The lack of access was the reason we didn't put it there in the first place.

I also need to know, 'What is the safest way to eradicate Poison Ivy with chickens involved?' My husband dug it out more than once, and it comes back. I see Roundup in our future if I can't find another way. I am very allergic so it must be removed if I am going to chase chickens in this area.

Any more ideas are more than welcomed!

Smitten Chicken Mama,
Beth