What kind of hawk?

[kaeKY]

This is what I found in my backyard. Can anyone identify?

 

[centrarchid]

Coopers Hawk. Juvenile as in this years hatch. No good size reference but looks like male.

 

[kaeKY]

That what I was afraid of. He is quite small, shorter than the lirope grass in the background. These are the vicious ones, right?

 

[DianaMallory]

Yes coopers it looks like the one that was in my backyard 3 days ago. Scared the poo out of my girls but he couldn't get to them because they are completely enclosed.

 

[chickortreat]

Better get your roo started in tae-kwon-do classes. He can legally protect your hens, while you cannot.

 

[centrarchid]

That what I was afraid of. He is quite small, shorter than the lirope grass in the background. These are the vicious ones, right?

If your birds are small or hens only, a Coopers Hawk, especially a hen which is larger can be a problem. If your birds are vulnerable keep them penned up. Remember a Coopers Hawks are pretty good at getting through holes and will chase chickens into a confined space. I keep Coopers out by having a combination of adults including roosters and dogs.

 

[kaeKY]

Yikes, I have bantam hens. What kind of netting will keep them out? I have a secure run, but would like to cover a little area so they can free range a bit. Something like this?

http://www.cutlersupply.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=9_36&products_id=929

 

[centrarchid]

The netting will do fine against a Coopers Hawk. It will not be effective against raccoons that might attempt coming in over top as well.