Need predator suggestions ........PLEASE

[Deerling]

I am hoping to get Guineas, too, but make sure you do research on them first. There's a lot of great info here https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/45/guinea-fowl. They don't always get along with chickens and can be very loud, so you just have to think things through and make plans before you get them. We have 35 baby chicks right now and I'm nervous to put them out as well.

 

[arnr1530]

Yes I am doing lots of research that's the type of person I am lol and I may have to wait a little see how my new little babies make out! And I'll get a bigger coop befo I do get guineas even tho I really want them lol

 

[Deerling]

Yes I am doing lots of research that's the type of person I am lol and I may have to wait a little see how my new little babies make out! And I'll get a bigger coop befo I do get guineas even tho I really want them lol

That's how I am, too! I really want some also, we have a bad flea and tick problem and two little ones. I kind of want to just order a bunch of Guineas and let them free range and roost in trees, but we have seen bobcats and hawks, heard coyotes and owls (and I'm sure there are coons and skunks) so it might not be fair to them to do that. Our coop is already too small for the amount of chicks we have, though, so I think I would rather have the Guineas separate.

 

[arnr1530]

Yea I agree!! I don't want my free range I have to many critters to get my babies plus my coop is not big enough for anymore just enough for my 6 chickens!
Have you tried Diatomaceous Earth for your flea problem?

 

[arnr1530]

I also wanted my guineas to just make sure no snakes get my others!!

 

[RoosterMoose]

In the past I always had the best success against predators by using a live trap. Get one that is sized for raccoons, possums, and skunks and bait it with sardines or tuna. After you catch them t is up to you whether you want to relocate them or shoot them. Of course a well sealed coop is always ideal, but sometimes, as in my experience, predators will hang around until they can figure out the coop and may find a way in. In the case that you are going to free range them, get some guineas, or maybe some geese or turkeys. Stray cats and coyotes will be the main problem if free ranging where I am from, and chickens can become quickly tuned to warning calls from guineas and such.

 

[arnr1530]

Thank you very much I am not gonna free range them unless I am outside with them during the day at night I will have them sealed ice and tight up in the coop I'm not to worry about night time as long as the coop is full proof I guess day time has me a little worried but thank you very much

 

[RoosterMoose]

No problem. Just remember that Coons can get pretty smart and may find a way in to the best sealed coop... or at least you think it's sealed lol Always hated checking the coop in the morning and finding a bunch of feathers and two separate wings on the ground by themselves, and no clear answer as to how anything could have gotten in.