Using Lights to deter predators

[Williams Quail]

I was wondering if you kept lights on at dark around your chicken run if it would help to keep predators away.

 

[PD-Riverman]

I was wondering if you kept lights on at dark around your chicken run if it would help to keep predators away.

No, my chickens are kept about 1/2 mile away from my home---other than solar there is no electricity to keep a light on---if I wanted. I just build good pens/coops and up to 2 years ago I only had a problem once and a while but nothing very serious. 2 years ago I place a GP dog in that 1 1/2 acre fenced in area----so far no problems in 2 years with as many as 1232 chickens at one time. Yes I have found a couple dead possums and a couple dead stray cats, few dead snakes in this area.

Lights---I am not sure how much that would help-----probably not a lot from 4 legged predators!!

 

[Birdydeb]

I've used motion sensored lights. My experience with them is that if they work they only work for a limited amount of time according to the predator. I call it the "SURPRISE" factor. Some predators may be startled enough to run away at first but as they acclimate to the light most learn to ignore it...some faster than others. Motion sensored lights around my coop are mainly for my benefit should I have to go out there for some reason. I wish it were that easy.

 

[Flock In Texas]

I keep a clock/radio in the coop. I'm hoping that the talking will confuse predators, or at least mask my response until I arrive.

My chickens are very conservative because they listen to talk radio 24/7.

 

[Howard E]

Not likely to keep them away, at least for long. More like "better to see you my dear" than effective protection. Beyond that, the birds need the darkness to go to roost.

So best strategy for predators is a tight coop, built of sturdy materials they can't breach, so even if the varmints are just outside the coop, it does them no good, as they can't get in.

Then, if you want to further the distance they are kept at bay away from the coop.........an electric fence out beyond.

Coop keeps them safe at night and electric fence confines and protects them as they roam around by day.