I live out in the sticks now, with mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, owls, hawks, vultures, and according to the locals, Big Foot. I am in Texas, born and raised, but not ever before this far out in the country. It's nice though. A friend from the city had to rehome a wrongly sexed rooster and his hen friend, and living in the country, I could take the rooster. Then another friend gave me 7 chickens and a dozen guineas, just for fun. Predation has been my biggest enemy. So I got a puppy to protect the chickens. She was good the girls, but I have two children. So I had to get a second puppy. I thought the older pup would teach the younger pup. Four chickens and three guineas later... Well the good news is the second pup learned not harm the chicken or the guineas. Both dogs defend the chickens very well. And then, the nighttime air raids began. Owls. The 1 hen left, the rehoming gift from my friend, roosts in a coop, but the guineas were getting slaughtered every night. The dogs couldn't help. I am down to only four guineas left. Now I've built a chicken run, and I'm about to cover it with netting. Can you believe this all started with ONE chicken? Her name is Miss Hen, a pretty little rust and black Wyandotte. I've been following for a year and decided to join. I am about to buy several chicks to rebuild my flock. Wish me luck! I look forward to reading more.
Hello there and welcome to BYC! So sorry for all your losses!! I live in the middle of nowhere too and know how bad the predators are out here! The only real solution for an area filled with predators is to build a sturdy run. I let my birds out each day but under supervision only. Their time is limited outside since I don't have all day to watch them either, but they don't seem to mind an hour here or an hour there, as long as it is enjoyable for them. Good luck and I hope you can keep the rest your flock safe!!
Welcome to BYC!!! There are loads of members on here…so if you have ANY questions…just ASK!!! Hope you have loads of fun and all your answers answered here on BYC the BEST CHICKEN KEEPING FORUM on EARTH!!
Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined. I'm sorry to hear about your losses! Many members on here unfortunately learn the hard way that dogs and chickens don't mix well. But, I'm glad to hear that they're getting along well now! I hope your remaining hens stay safe and you can find some new birds to rebuild your flock!
Sounds like you really live in a wild and wooly area. I hope the dogs will protect your family as well as the birds. Having survived all that - I'm sure you are stronger and better prepared now.
Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help. I'm very sorry for your losses! We have too many predators here too.