To clarify, I will be keeping my production flock in a free range setting. A small number of meat / egg producers already doing so in my area. They had to develop their operations in stages. I am trying replicate without loosing large numbers of birds in process. Regardless, some will be lost, sometimes to weather, sometimes to disease. Food and water is provided to excess. Medical - no, culling immmediate and when possible done in manner that benefits balance of flock.
The purpose of business pertaining to predators is long-term protection of flock. Not wanton sacrificing of birds. Method I will be using to keep harm from coming to birds by dog intended to serve as guard involves start of imprinting pup at very young age (~ 8 weeks) during the same time frame it will imprinted on humans, if not already done so. Training dogs not to do harm is be more difficult and potentially more risky for birds. I went that route several years ago with a black and tan that worked great and resulted in a dog with more flexible behavoir beyond guarding poultry. Required more time than I have now nless your professional trainer can help me out. Catahulas have reputation for being smart. I reason smarts will enable dog to get around fences and buildings in pursuit of unwanted guest. Some breeds / individuals not well suited for latter. If you suggest catahulas are not up to task, then I will consider dropping that option.
I do enjoy watching my fowl and the wildlife. Observing latter not just for pleasure, but also, understanding how they go about their business and potentially to gain insight in how to protect my stock and wildlife at same time.
