Scared to free range

[cluckmecoop7]

I'm terrified to free range my little flock!!! During the day I mostly only have to worry about A LOT OF HAWKS and neighbors dogs. If you are attached to your flock, how do you go about doing this? Thanks!

 

[humblehillsfarm]

Hope for the best and plan for the worst. I free range mine and have actual nightmares on a regular basis about my flock. At least for the meantime, all has been well. I have very careful to lock them up the second they all go in the coop. We have a dog and spend a lot of time outside so predators do know we are out and about, but it's a risky decision for sure. I hope one day to give them a large enclosure to ensure their safety, but I would still let the free range on the days I am home. It's quite obvious they love free ranging and their range is enormous around our farm.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

I don't have a dog, sadly.

 

[sunnie7]

If you free range you have to willing to accept losses.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

I can't accept losses. Period.

 

[humblehillsfarm]

I can't accept losses. Period.

Then you shouldn't free range.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

I won't.

 

[sunnie7]

I can't accept losses. Period.

Then I’d advise against free ranging unless you closely supervise. We had a fox take two of ours while we were right outside with them but working.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

Then I’d advise against free ranging unless you closely supervise. We had a fox take two of ours while we were right outside with them but working.

I'm sorry!

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Free ranging is a decision to be made based on your situation. Some people just can't. Hopefully you can fence in a large enough enclosure that allows your birds enough freedom to exercise outdoors safely most of the day. They should not have to live in a tiny coop all their lives. If hawks are a problem there are ways to protect them. Netting over the run is one way. Some people string twine over the enclosure in a grid small enough to discourage hawks. Good luck.