Prey for other animals

[navella]

I've asked one question already but I have another. Won't the chicks be easy prey for cats and large birds at 5 and 6 weeks when I put them outside? I'm afraid that mine and the other cats will get them.Right now they are only the size of small pigeons or large robins if anyone knows what either of those are.

 

[pipemum]

Yes. All sorts of things like to eat chickens of any size.

 

[navella]

What can I do to protect them from cats and other things out there trying to eat them?

 

[pipemum]

Build them a safe coop and run?

ETA: Do you have a coop? There's a whole section here devoted to discussing secure coops/runs: https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/9/coop-run-design-construction-maintenance

 

[Lizz9311]

Build them a safe coop and run?

ETA: Do you have a coop? There's a whole section devoted to discussing secure coops: https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/9/coop-run-design-construction-maintenance

This is your only course of action really and it's not 100% either, so just be aware. A hawk managed to get into our big girls' run last month. Do your best to build a secure coop and run.

 

[navella]

Thanks for your help, but I'm worried about them out in the yard during the day.How can I keep them safe then?

 

[shellyjimrye]

I think what you are asking is about Free Ranging your chickens. I personally would not free range any chickens that were not full grown. I would for sure keep them confined to a secured run.

After that, you always take a chance on predators possibly going after your birds. It is impossible to prevent all threats.

Best you can do is try and monitor your hens when they are out and maybe try and contain your cats when they are out.