Wolf/Coyote Pee or Predator lights?

[Razorbackgirl]

We live in the upper Midwest and have all the usual suspects as far as predators: hawks, raccoons, foxes, rats, etc. We also have a large pack of coyotes, at least one black bear, and fisher cats in the area. I was considering either wolf & coyote pee as a deterrent or predator lights. The predator lights have the advantage of also deterring deer from my garden.

Does anyone have any experience with either option? Eventually, I want a LGD, but that won't be for a while yet.

 

[Razorbackgirl]

I should also add that our coop is solidly built, and we have a covered run. The chickens will only free range under supervision. I just am interested in adding another layer of protection.

 

[chickengeorgeto]

We live in the upper Midwest and have all the usual suspects as far as predators: hawks, raccoons, foxes, rats, etc. We also have a large pack of coyotes, at least one black bear, and fisher cats in the area. I was considering either wolf & coyote pee as a deterrent or predator lights. The predator lights have the advantage of also deterring deer from my garden.

Does anyone have any experience with either option? Eventually, I want a LGD, but that won't be for a while yet.

Animal urine actually attracts predators like bears, wolves, foxes etc. The reason for this is because ALL predators are opportunist. The presents of a predators' urine only increases other predators' interest because other predators take the opportunity to clean up the scraps or remains of the first predator's kill. In other words there is no honor among thieves or other predators, they steal from each other just as readily as they steal from you.

A little research will show that fur trapping supply houses do a land office business in predator pee because it brings the predators in close and removes their fear while getting their minds on food and not on where the trap or their feet are.

The flashing predator lights may work somewhat to prevent Great Horned Owl attacks against chickens roosting in trees. Not because it scares them off but because when the lights are pointed straight up they MAY interfere with a GHO's night vision. Unfortunately no GHOs have commented on the effectiveness of flashing anti predator night lights.

 

[Razorbackgirl]

Thanks for the reply, Chickengeorgeto. I should have known that about the pee, but I had been reading the hype on one website...d'oh.

Should have gone with the adage, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."


I may try the lights. That seems to make the most sense.

 

[aart]

Thanks for the reply, Chickengeorgeto. I should have known that about the pee, but I had been reading the hype on one website...d'oh.

Should have gone with the adage, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."


I may try the lights. That seems to make the most sense.

Same goes for the lights.......Save your money on the lights, put it towards a good game or surveillance camera.

 

[Razorbackgirl]

So you don't think the lights would work either?

And what does a surveillance camera do for me? I already know what's out there. I just want to keep it away.

 

[aart]

Guess you don't need a camera either then....no, I don't think the lights will work for long, if at all.
Build your coop and run well then, if they can't get in and have a meal, they will stay away.

 

[Razorbackgirl]

Thanks, aart. We are making sure the coop is solidly secure, and we'll just hope for the best!