Hawk Protection For Movable Run

[StrawberryMoon]

I am building a large tractor style coop for 12 chickens. I initially planned to free range my birds, but I live in a rural area with all the predators. Coyotes, foxes, free range neighbor dogs, hawks, eagles, and raccoons at least. I decided on a compromise of a movable coop surrounded by movable electric fencing, such as this one:. https://www.premier1supplies.com/poultry/fencing.php?fence_id=96

I hope this fence will stop the worst daytime predator attacks, and the birds will be securely locked inside the coop at night. Is there anything I can do to deter the aerial predators such as hawks and eagles? Does anyone know of a movable top fence design? Do any of the deterrent strategies, like shiny objects or owl statues work? All ideas are welcome. Thanks!

 

[azygous]

Hawks are a tough predator to completely protect against. The best method is to provide a covered run, but free range chickens, even inside an electric poultry net are going to be vulnerable.

There is bird netting stretched over the top of the fenced area. Another thing you can do is to provide cover for the chickens to scoot under when they spot danger approaching from above.

It can be simply retaining access to the coop where they can run when a hawk is spotted. Or if the free range area is large, create low ramadas or a lean-to under which they can run so a hawk can't grab them.

 

[aart]

They may even be more susceptible to hawks when trapped in poultry netting,
tho providing cover as azygous suggests could certainly help.

I've got serious doubts about shiny objects.... and owl statues.

 

[StrawberryMoon]

I found this article showing a portable aviary:. http://learn.eartheasy.com/2013/05/how-to-protect-your-chickens-from-overhead-predators/

The portable garages they are using appear to be very expensive, and I didn't find any listings for frames-only on my local Craigslist. I wonder if a similar structure could be made out of PVC pipe? I have structures like that in my garden covered in greenhouse plastic. The main trouble might be tying them down in a way that the wind wouldn't blow them over, yet they would still be portable. Ideas?