Opened the coop door

[TexasChickenDance]

After having our chickens for 2 weeks, we finally opened the coop door to let them out into a run. It was funny watching them approach the door, look out then run to the back of the coop as if they were scared. Eventually most of them came out walked around to explore then run back into the coop. Of course we sat there as we didn't know what they would do and wanted to be right there if something happened. Let them out again this morning while I groomed the horses and they all came out to explore but they didn't stay out to long. Will they eventually want to stay out all day?

 

[joedie]

Yes, they'll get used to it and prefer to be out and about.

 

[hen-thusiast]

Quote:
That and pretty soon they will DEMAND to be let out every time they know you are around. (Our horses give us away, if they nicker they chickens start their demands

)

Not sure where you live, but I would keep in mind predators. We live in what I would call the city and have seen hawks, eagles and fox out during the day eyeing our chickens. They only free range under strict supervision.

 

[TexasChickenDance]

We're in Central Texas and there are hawks out and about. Do all hawks try to get chickens or is it just certain types? We have a donkey who protects all the animals so pretty sure he would protect the chickens too but we will keep an eye out for any predator that could pose a risk.

 

[Chick_a_dee]

My hens enjoy pecking at the pop door until I let them out lol

 

[mboreham1]

Yes they will absolutely come out, as soon as they find a worm, they will be out from dawn until dusk if you give them a chance. Our backdoor squeaks and that gives us away, anyone would think a predator is in the coop with them based on the unholy racket they make!

Yes hawks will swoop down, generally the smallest birds will go quickest. I am not sure a donkey will protect a chicken from a swooping hawk. I have a dog (beagle) he keeps out cats, possums and other birds but that is because he is very vocal and thinks the birds are his to protect!

 

[newchicksnducks]

Yep, I believe most every type of hawk would consider a chicken dinner a good meal. I lost 7 month old pullet to a hawk that looked to be about 1/2 the hen's size! They were able to free range all summer and fall without a problem, but once the cold snap of our northern winters hit, I lost two girls to fox and hawk within 3 days...now they are in lockdown inside the coop until the run gets the electric fence up to help deter the fox and a chicken wire roof to help with the hawk problem:/