San Diego Chicken meetup and Chat thread

[RHRanch]

I free range some of my bantams, but I do it knowing that there is a possibility that a hawk may get one here and there - those birds I don't want to risk, I don't free range. Last year I had 3-4 birds taken by hawks and none since. Before that I hadn't lost any in years....

Is anyone interested in a house rabbit? I have a 4 yr old mini rex doe that is retired from breeding and has had trouble with her feet on wire (sore hock), so she must be kept on bedding. She is quiet and beautifully marked, but a bit cage aggressive (working on that, LOL) - She uses one corner of her cage for pottying in, so somewhat potty trained. She loves apples, and will co-operate when bribed with them. (LOL)

 

[Aumlet]

I think it all depends on the cat. 2 of my cats avoid the chickens, and 1 of my cats is a self-appointed "poultry protector." He is 12 years old, so not at his prime, but he's still a decent mouser when he is motivated. He won't harm bantams or chicks - in fact when the flock is out in the yard, chicks will run to him if some thing scares him and he's closer than mama.

He just, for some reason, LOVES chickens. My first batch of chicks elicited my cats' prey drive, but once they grew bigger my cats seemed to place chickens of all ages as not-for-eating.

My flock free ranges in the evening for a few hours before dark. The little roo keeps a watch out for hawks, and the crows help too. All the chickens will run for cover if someone sounds the alarm. I don't let them out if I'm not home.

There's always a risk, but the chickens (and the bunny) adore their time at large.

 

[vannaHaines]

Well I have 2 cats currently, but they live indoors rather than out back where my peeps are. My younger cat got out into the yard one afternoon when I was home and I think the larger hens scared the begeezes out of her. Maybe I can acclimate her or my older and more portly cat to the chickens.....could be worth a try....

 

[Aumlet]

My cats have never seemed to be a hawk deterrent for what it's worth. They're mostly rodent control.

 

[vannaHaines]

My cats have never seemed to be a hawk deterrent for what it's worth. They're mostly rodent control.

Even a 25lb, portly, monochrome Garfield of a cat? *giggle*

 

[MissusC]

I am trying to do a search (and failing) but is anyone in the area part of an Azure Standard drop off? Looking to get bulk organic whole grains, for milling into flours. My crazy survivalist hubs might have just gotten an insane grain mill.

 

[WhiteMountainsRanch]

I am trying to do a search (and failing) but is anyone in the area part of an Azure Standard drop off? Looking to get bulk organic whole grains, for milling into flours. My crazy survivalist hubs might have just gotten an insane grain mill.

I know there is one in El Cajon, but it's closed... I think they opened a new one in La Mesa.... I could probably get more info if your interested...

 

[dedicateddourly]

I am trying to do a search (and failing) but is anyone in the area part of an Azure Standard drop off? Looking to get bulk organic whole grains, for milling into flours. My crazy survivalist hubs might have just gotten an insane grain mill. 

I'm a member of Azure Standard...I'm in Fallbrook though. Just give them a call and they can tell you the closest drop point.

 

[MissusC]

I'm a member of Azure Standard...I'm in Fallbrook though. Just give them a call and they can tell you the closest drop point.

I called and they told me La Mesa, but the local coordinator/contact hasn't called me back.

Thanks!

 

[mbiondo]

Looks like that pretty horse helps. Is she available to smooth pastures?
With chickens, I agree about the aviary cover. Our has large oak tree cover, so far so good. Dogs are on other side of fence, and I think that helps. Always lock 'em up at dusk.

So sorry to those of you who have lost your cuties.

By the way...? when/where is the next meeting?