Well that ain't good. :eek:
Time to hustle on a secure space.
http//:www.backyardchickens.com/threadloom/search?query=Hoop coop&tab=620
Not sure why my link looks funny. It worked though. Look in the articles at hoop coops.
They are pretty fast to build and can be made predator resistant.
Wait...WHAT? There is a barn?! I missed that part!
If so sectioning off part of the barn and leaving them in there would be secure, safe and fastest way to handle them while gone.
How long will you be gone?
A hoop run at 8'x8' is pretty easy and fast to build. It would cost far less than a coop to build and can be done to keep them safe while being big enough they would not require being let out every day...especially while predators linger and you are not home. Shade...
Getting them into a coop is actually super easy.
Step 1 get a secure coop and run set up.
Step 2 confine them in said coop and run for a few days to a week.
Step 3 let them free range about an hour before dark.
Step 4 enjoy watching them file back into the coop to sleep at dusk.
They put...
The owl will hang around.
Unfortunately many of us learned the hard way that if it's not owls it's something else wanting to eat our birds. :(
At night they are most at risk. I know your hubs is against a coop but they actually need safe sleeping quarters.
Once they have gone to sleep grab around the wings and body then place in the kennel.
Chickens are pretty catatonic once asleep so are easily grabbed as long as you use just enough light that you can see....keep it as dark as possible.
You can try the treat trail but best bet is grabbing off...