Uncovered duck run

[Runnerduckgal]

Hi,
My ducks run is not covered. It is my understanding that hawks and Eagles need an unobstructed clear path to swoop in. What has been your experience? My main concern is the Hawks, Eagles and Owls as the area all around our property is forested. The ducks are securely locked up at night. Any comments or tips are appreciated

 

[viennaproto]

I would absolutely put a cover on that run! I live in upstate and NY and have lost numerous birds due to hawks and eagles even during the day. I even spot the same one watching my ducks from a tree in my backyard. Better to be safe than sorry!

 

[Runnerduckgal]

I would absolutely put a cover on that run! I live in upstate and NY and have lost numerous birds due to hawks and eagles even during the day. I even spot the same one watching my ducks from a tree in my backyard. Better to be safe than sorry!

What about reflective material? Does that really work? The run is an odd shape and covered partially by some tree cover. No large open runway for predators to swoop in. It is a large area and would be a lot to cover! I have heard of people using fishing line with reflective material. Maybe could be an option?

 

[viennaproto]

My run is an odd shape too as we made it ourselves! For mine, I purchase large hockey netting off of amazon and put it over the top and clipped it on with little locks. I have never had a problem with birds swooping down as they see the top is covered. This is close to the one I ordered: https://www.amazon.com/Sports-Stree...2908&sprefix=large+hockey+nett,aps,149&sr=8-5

 

[cheezenkwackers]

My ducks are out all day without a cover and have lived for four years, so far. Now, I am not surrounded by forest and I do not have eagles. Still, I have seen many Cooper’s hawks, Red tailed hawks and Great Horned Owls fly over head My ducks (Khaki, Welsh Harlequin, and White Crested), quack like crazy if a hawk (or a balloon) is nearby. They also have shrubs to nap or hide under. There are two purple Martin houses and the Martins will go after the hawks. Anyway, I realize I am taking a risk but haven’t had any trouble which I assume is what you wanted to hear.

 

[Miss Lydia]

If I had to keep my birds inside a run during the day I’d have a covered run. At least free ranging they can run and hide if there is plenty of cover. But inside a pen they have no place to run to. The netting sounds like an option just secure it all the way around

 

[Neggative]

run some fishing string over it... you could even hang some dvd's or something good and flashy...

 

[21hens-incharge]

I would be adding a lid to that run. Trees....those don't hide ducks but do hide hawks and give them time to plan lunch.

 

[Beaglegal]

I have an uncovered duck run, but my run has tree cover. I have not had issues with hawks going after my ducks but I I have had issues with bald eagles going after my ducks while free ranging. I have added shelters in the open fields which has offered shade and eagle protection. It’s a trade off and there is risk to not keeping your ducks in a covered run. You just have to weigh risks vs benefits.

 

[Runnerduckgal]

My ducks are out all day without a cover and have lived for four years, so far. Now, I am not surrounded by forest and I do not have eagles. Still, I have seen many Cooper’s hawks, Red tailed hawks and Great Horned Owls fly over head My ducks (Khaki, Welsh Harlequin, and White Crested), quack like crazy if a hawk (or a balloon) is nearby. They also have shrubs to nap or hide under. There are two purple Martin houses and the Martins will go after the hawks. Anyway, I realize I am taking a risk but haven’t had any trouble which I assume is what you wanted to hear.

I suppose that is good to hear! I know people who have uncovered runs and have been fine. We keep a close eye and are home most often. We also have a dog that would alert if he was out there. Of course I still worry! Considering partially covering the more open area. The rest is brush and trees they could hide under.