Does anyone follow an exact schedule for their chickens? As stupid as it sounds, I was informed by my neighbor that I am stupid for thinking a light outside the coop MIGHT be keeping predators away. Since the neighbor is an "expert" that has lost about fifteen birds so far this year to predators, I think I just might be right. Either way, I was further educated that I don't keep a strict enough schedule, and that my flock has been seen outside late at night when I am not home (seriously doubt it. I can't get my birds to move off the roost for anything once the sun starts to set!). For the two or three times I have come home late, I am being admonished. THEY have a schedule that is such a time on these days, such a time on these days, and another time on the weekends. The birds AND predators KNOW what day it is, and when the door will be open or shut, when they have to go to bed, and when they will be fed on that day.
Bottom line, a neighbor said that they watch my comings and goings, when I do what, and how I do it, and they do not approve. I have spent the evening in the dark to throw them off.
Someone please tell me I am doing a good job!Even if I am not.
![]()
You're doing fine. I let mine out when I feel like it in the morning. This can be as early as 7 am, and as late as 9. They go to bed on their own. I close up the coop when I get to it. If I'm home, it's 9. if I'm out, it's when I get home. Guess what? Last weekend was my birthday, we had a party at a friend's house. We got home at 5 am. My chickens didn't get locked in at all. They're fine. You're neighbor is a busy body. The end.