Owls

[AceTex88]

I am starting a new coop after several years of no chickens... And our new house backs up to woods with a bunch of owls. Will the owls try to go after my chickens? They will be bantam orpingtons. I have seen the owls go after other birds, and squirels during the day just before nightfall, so I am concerned they will see the chickens as an easy meal!

 

[shmccarthy]

Yes owls will go after the chickens. Owls are generally out hunting at night, when the chickens are safe in the coop but I have seen them out during the day as well. I have a large owl living in the giant oak tree in my yard, but he hasn't bothered them, but I still keep an eye on him. If your coop is properly fenced, I don't see an owl putting in a huge effort to break in, but I would still keep an eye out during the morning/dusk, just in case.

 

[AceTex88]

Thank you, the coop is very good, just concearned during the day when they will free rang a bit.

 

[4 the Birds]

Thank you, the coop is very good, just concearned during the day when they will free rang a bit.

I have never had another problems with our birds free ranging during daylight hours within a fenced perimeter. During the night the coyotes and owls are often heard and out on the prowl.