Since RoosterLew lost part of the flock to dogs (I'm assuming domesticated) we should probably take this opportunity to discuss what we do to protect our flock from neighborhood dogs and cats. It is bad enough that we have to worry about the wild predators that are just trying to feed themselves, but we also have to worry about the neighbor's pets that our good neighbors do not keep confined. I've had to stop free ranging for the time being until I can build my flock back up after two devastating attacks this year (surprising, both of those were in the coop or the run).
So, I'll start this off by saying that in my state (New Mexico), we are a free range state. What that means is that if you do not want someone else's domesticated animal (from snakes and rats to cows, horses and buffalo) to freely roam your property, it is your responsibility to fence them out....the owners are not required to fence them in (leash laws apply within the city limits of most towns). With that said, if the domesticated animal damages any of your property (i.e. other animals, buildings, crops) you can take the owners to small claims court to recover damages.
What I have done...I've put gates on all of my driveways into my property and routinely "ride" the fence line on an ATV to try to ensure that any easy access points are closed off. Unfortunately, there are some areas that just cannot be secured, we have acequias...irrigation water ditches that are deep, wide and have to be open to allow water flow, trees that were planted 100 years ago that continue to grow (and fall) and are difficult to fence around. I generally carry a .22 pistol around the property when I'm outside in case I need to use it on something.
My plans...continue to improve the fencing as much as possible and possibly purchase an LGD. Still thinking on the dog, it is a serious commitment and I need to be prepared to do what it takes for almost 2 years until I have a dog that I can trust with the chickens. I want to be able to free range again, I think the chickens are generally safer when they have places that they can scatter/hide.
Anyway, interested in hearing everyone else's thoughts on flock security when free ranging.
So, I'll start this off by saying that in my state (New Mexico), we are a free range state. What that means is that if you do not want someone else's domesticated animal (from snakes and rats to cows, horses and buffalo) to freely roam your property, it is your responsibility to fence them out....the owners are not required to fence them in (leash laws apply within the city limits of most towns). With that said, if the domesticated animal damages any of your property (i.e. other animals, buildings, crops) you can take the owners to small claims court to recover damages.
What I have done...I've put gates on all of my driveways into my property and routinely "ride" the fence line on an ATV to try to ensure that any easy access points are closed off. Unfortunately, there are some areas that just cannot be secured, we have acequias...irrigation water ditches that are deep, wide and have to be open to allow water flow, trees that were planted 100 years ago that continue to grow (and fall) and are difficult to fence around. I generally carry a .22 pistol around the property when I'm outside in case I need to use it on something.
My plans...continue to improve the fencing as much as possible and possibly purchase an LGD. Still thinking on the dog, it is a serious commitment and I need to be prepared to do what it takes for almost 2 years until I have a dog that I can trust with the chickens. I want to be able to free range again, I think the chickens are generally safer when they have places that they can scatter/hide.
Anyway, interested in hearing everyone else's thoughts on flock security when free ranging.
That's awful.
