All overnight areas should be fully predator proof. Predator proof coops/houses should be fully enclosed, have protection from digging predators, a secure cover/roof, raccoon-proof latches, strong and secure corners, and no gaps (all vents and windows should be covered with 1/4” or 1/2” hardware cloth.
Research potential predators in your area and build daytime and nighttime enclosures appropriately. Common ground predators include coyotes, raccoons, bobcats, cougars, bears, weasels and dogs. Common aerial predators include hawks, owls, vultures, and eagles.
Free-ranging is never safe. Even with human supervision and close proximity, chickens can still be vulnerable to predators in areas without sufficient fencing and protection from aerial predators.
Safety & enrichment can exist at the same time. Safe enclosures need not inhibit quality of life. Most birds actively seek out safety under trees or within dense brush. Open areas are stressful due to leaving birds exposed. Adding enrichment, such as plants, perches, dust baths, etc. can allow for natural behaviors to be expressed within a safe enclosure.
Aviary netting can be an effective way to provide safety for bird residents in larger open areas during daytime hours. Netting is NOT fully predator proof, but can help deter aerial threats. Use a larger mesh size such as 2 inches to prevent small wild birds getting tangled.
Protect domestic birds AND wildlife. Predator protection should not involve traps or dangerous mechanisms aiming to deter predators via possible harm. We share space with wildlife and should respect their right to live as much as we keep our residents safe.
Do:
- Research the predators in your area.
- Protect from both ground & aerial predators.
- Have fully predator proof coops/houses .
- Use hardware cloth (1/4″ or 1/2″) to cover coop/house windows and vents.
- Clean up food at night so it doesn’t attract predators.
Don’t:
- Use chicken wire.
- Allow birds to free range (in areas without sufficient fencing and protection from aerial predators).
- Use automatic coop doors.
- Use “livestock guardian” dogs or roosters to protect other animals
- House birds with larger species.
- Allow birds outside of fully protected areas before dawn or after dusk.
For grants on building appropriate aviaries, visit microsanctuary.org/grants