what are some good ways to protect from predators

[painteddream]

What are some good ways to protect my chickens from Hawks and Eagles I want them to Free range out in the pasture any ideas thanks

 

[Nightfeather]

get an ostrich thats what one of my friends use. They will chase of predators and sometimes kill them.

 

[RedIII]

If the birds free range, there's always going to be a chance that some predator will try to pick them off, no matter what you do. They will be safer from birds of prey in an enclosed run, but I can understand not wanting to keep them cooped up 24/7. Try to observe what kinds of predators you see active during the day. If a hawk or an eagle has territory where you live, you'll either hear them or see them cruising the sky periodically. And if you see enough activity that worries you, put them in a run.

Generally speaking, if you have a rooster among the flock, he'll help keep an eye out for predators and sound an alarm if he sees one. I know that opinions on this can vary, as hens can learn to recognize danger without a roo around, but I've found that I like having a boy in with my girls because he's very observant. Some people have also found that having a dog out around the flock will help, but I don't have much personal experience with this route, so someone who has tried this would have to tell you more.

 

[painteddream]

I Would love to get a ostrich but can't afford to buy one right now

 

[painteddream]

We have serveral red tail Hawks and a pair of eagles that live here in our area I don't think my chicks would like my dog he likes to play rough. Thanks

 

[painteddream]

Thank you all for your help . I really love my chickens they are my lil buddies

 

[rotten97]

I just saw a bald eagle about 1 mile down the road from me , I was planning on getting a flock dog sooner or later but it may be sooner , stupid protected birds!

 

[Easter eggers]

Try hanging CDs in the trees the reflection scares away hawks and eagles and if you have crows in the area they will chase hawks and eagles away.

 

[suebee]

Get a dog.

 

[v.cyr]

we had a horse that used to guard the chickens when we had them in the barnyard... she scared the crap out of the chickens, but nothing got close to them while she was out with them... she would even chase them into their coop if she spotted a hawk