I'm planning on having a permanent run and coop for my 6 chickens, however I'd like them to also be able to do some foraging.
I have a 48 by 48 garden that is surrounded by a 4 foot high, 2x4 wire fence. How could I make this safe for them during the day? There is a pair of redtail hawks that nest not more then 100 yards away. Would I be better going with a chicken tractor to move around the area? Or is there an inexpensive way to extend the fence up 2 and roof that large of an area that would still let me work in the garden. Would aviary netting be feasible? Ive heard that small birds (sparrows, ect.) can get caught in it and die. Id hate to have to try to cut an angry hawk out of the stuff.
Also would the chickens poop up the garden and make it unpleasant to work out there if allowed to range around its 2304 sq ft?
If I go with a tractor how do I get them back into the coop and run in the evenings?
Thanks for your suggestions.
I have a 48 by 48 garden that is surrounded by a 4 foot high, 2x4 wire fence. How could I make this safe for them during the day? There is a pair of redtail hawks that nest not more then 100 yards away. Would I be better going with a chicken tractor to move around the area? Or is there an inexpensive way to extend the fence up 2 and roof that large of an area that would still let me work in the garden. Would aviary netting be feasible? Ive heard that small birds (sparrows, ect.) can get caught in it and die. Id hate to have to try to cut an angry hawk out of the stuff.
Also would the chickens poop up the garden and make it unpleasant to work out there if allowed to range around its 2304 sq ft?
If I go with a tractor how do I get them back into the coop and run in the evenings?
Thanks for your suggestions.