Trouble with hawks

[achillacres]

Hello, I have read this site often and always appreciate the insight of others...so it was time to join. I am small time...8 hens and 1 rooster. We just lost Selma yesterday to a hawk...in 4 years we have never had any issue. I guess with the snow on the ground (I live in Southern Ontario) the hawk isn't finding mice and the chickens are easy prey. Thank you for those who had provided advice on the blog. I filled my bird feeders in order to keep the black birds (ravens or crows?) around as they will chase hawks...ha, I used to chase them away!! We also put some temporary ropes above the pen area so the hawk can't land. Both tips were from this site....so thank you, I think the rest of them will be safe

 

[Bridebeliever]

Glad you decided to join us here! So sorry about your loss!

Sounds like you are doing everything right to avoid another unfortunate loss. Isn't it funny how the ravens and crows suddenly become our "friends"?

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

Oh I am so sorry for your loss! I know how difficult it is to lose them. Crows and Ravens make excellent guard birds! Our Ravens run off the Hawks all the time. I have learned to understand the Ravens particular cackle and know when a Hawk is in the territory or being chased by the Ravens. Being you are up in Ontario, you probably have Ravens up there. However, be careful with chicks...Ravens can see tiny babies as food. They won't bother adult birds and will protect what is in your yard, especially since you feed them! My Ravens love dry dog food.

Make yourself at home here and welcome to our flock!

 

[Pete94558]

Here are a few ways to prevent it again:

http://www.backyardpoultrymag.com/5-ways-stop-aerial-backyard-chicken-predators/

 

[drumstick diva]

Even if you just stretch deer netting over the top of your run, that would keep hawks out. They don't want to risk damage to their wings.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC. Hawks are an issue for me sometimes. I'd suggest taking extra care in the coming week or so as a successful hunt will keep the hawk coming back again.
All the best
CT

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[achillacres]

thanks everyone for the welcome and tips! Unfortunately, we lost another yesterday. That's 2 in 2 days. the hawk isn't eating them. I suspect they are too heavy for it to carry them away. So, more ropes (bright orange) and will be getting some netting. No issues today...whew. Thanks for the tip of feeding the ravens dry dog food. Yes, hard to believe they have become my friends. I have 6 new pullets on order for March 30th, let's hope our mild winter prevails and the hawk issues end.