Predators in the Southwest

[Shogun99]

All,

I have another question. I was looking over the predators on the BYC website and it listed predators, but none of those are in my region (with exception possibly to the Hawk). Are there any specific predators that I should try to protect against in the area aside from the neighborhood cat?

Thanks

 

[Jarhead]

natural west tx predators that could potentially kill a chicken or chick
(list does not include historic predators which are no longer present i.e. gray wolf):

hawks
falcons
badgers
bears
bobcat
raccoon
coyote
rat
mt lion
ringtail
skunk
fox
snakes

 

[Jarhead]

Just so you know. That info was based off of materials I have from TX parks and wildlife dept. I grew up in TX and it was my stomping ground for 30 years. I keep up on all my TX info. My heart is still there.

 

[Shogun99]

Thanks Jarhead!

I thought about the snakes but being in an urban environment, I haven't seen one yet in my neighborhood. I think that I really just need to be wary of the predators with wings and domestic animals, i.e. felines.

Do you think that there are any good ways of keeping cats out of the coop without having to resort to electric fencing?

 

[Jarhead]

Do you have a fence of any kind? Do you normally see stray cats in your yard? You could always get a dog to guard the chickens. As far as material goes 1/2" hardware cloth seems to be the preferred item to close in the coop/run. Just remember these critters are very stealthy and many have adapted well to urban/suburban environments. Even though you don't normally see them be sure some are around

Set up a trail camera (like you use in hunting) in your backyard, you might be surprise.