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[ChihiroChicken]

I've been lurking BYC for awhile, but I decided to make an account in light of getting some new birds soon.

I live in NC, in the Triangle area, and this will be my third year raising chickens. I've had two separate flocks, and sadly, one one of the second is living, with heavy predator attacks of recent.

We are getting ready to adopt new chicks for a flock. We buy ours locally, from trusted raisers. If anyone has advice on predator-hostile hens(and a single rooster), that'd be great! We will probably be getting 5-10 birds.

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! Sorry about the loss of your birds. You might want to check out the Predators forum for help with dealing with the predators you are facing and breeds that might be suitable https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/13/predators-and-pests You could also try your state thread for neighbors and what breeds/ set ups they are having success with. https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/91762/north-carolina

 

[TwoCrows]

So sorry about your losses. It is never easy to lose them. Definitely follow the link to the predator section that Kelsie has provided. And chatting with members in your state will definitely help you to feel at ease and learn about what it may take to raise your birds in your area.

Enjoy all your poultry adventures and welcome to BYC!

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

No matter how many predators you trap, kill or otherwise remove, there will always be another along any time - a free chicken dinner is a big temptation. I would recommend investing your resources in a predator-proof coop and enclosure, there really is no other way to ensure your birds are safe.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. In my experience the most predator resistant chickens are gamefowl. good luck in establishing your flock.

 

[gander007]

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

No matter how many predators you trap, kill or otherwise remove, there will always be another along any time - a free chicken dinner is a big temptation. I would recommend investing your resources in a predator-proof coop and enclosure, there really is no other way to ensure your birds are safe.

Yep - you will never eliminate all the predators, much more effective to predator proof (as much as possible) your birds.

 

[drumstick diva]

I doubt that even the biggest, toughest rooster can do much during a predator attack except to sound the alarm and hopefully live long enough for the others to hide.

Maybe some one will invent a "predator drone," but, I wouldn't hold my breath till then.