how to protect free-range chickens
Letting a flock of hens free range is a great way to supplement feed in a coop. But how do you keep everyone safe? This article will help with ways on how to protect free-range chickens.
Raising chickens all starts with keeping them safe, and this article will help, especially if you want your flock to roam freely throughout the day.
Raising free-range chickens is a great way to raise your flock, giving them the freedom to forage for feed. However, a hen that is out scratching tends to be distracted enough to miss when or if danger is present.
To help keep your chickens safe during the day, we have tips on protecting your flock while they are out and about.
What does it mean to free range?
Free-range chickens are allowed to roam freely and have access to the outdoors. This is different than chickens raised in a traditional coop with an enclosed run giving them access to the outdoors.
Chickens have an instinct to forage for food; you can often see a hen scratching at the ground to bring up worms, seeds, and even bugs.
One of the main benefits of free-ranging your chickens is that they can forage for food on their own. This not only provides a more natural diet for the birds, but it also reduces the cost of feed for the owners.
However, with free-ranging comes risks.
Predators such as hawks, foxes, and even domestic pets can pose a threat to your chickens. Without proper protection, these predators can easily harm or kill your flock.
How to Protect Free-Range Chickens
When raising free-range chickens, there are things you can do to ensure they are safe even when you are not around to watch over them.
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Provide Shelter
Make sure to have a coop for your chickens to return to throughout the day. Be sure it is secure each nite closing up the doors with your flock safely inside.
Use Fencing
If you want to free-range them but not give them full access to your entire property, you can incorporate temporary fences to keep them somewhat contained.
We like to use woven netting to keep our hens from wandering into the woods, where they can get into trouble.
Consider Using Chicken Tractors
Chicken tractors are portable coops that can be moved around to different areas of your property. This allows your chickens to have access to fresh forage while still providing them with protection.
Use Predator Deterrents
Though they are not fool proof, there are several ways to deter predators that you may find helpful. You can use motion-activated lights or predator lights like we use. We have one at each entrance to keep animals from getting to close.
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Train Your Flock
Believe it or not, chickens can be trained to come when called, which can be helpful, especially if you see that danger is near.
Training chickens to come when called:
- Each time you give your chickens treats, use a call “word” in a high pitched voice. I use “chick-chick-chick”.
- In just a short time your flock will associate that word with food.
- Test it out as they move out of your sight to ensure it works when they cannot see you.
- Use it to call them in at night or whenever you want them to come back to the coop.
Use Temporary Fencing
If you have a large property or want to give your chickens more space to roam, consider using temporary fencing. This can be moved around and changed as needed to provide your flock with new areas to explore while still keeping them safe.
Keep a Rooster
Having a rooster in your flock can help protect your free-range chickens. Roosters are naturally protective of their hens and will often sound crow out an alarm if they sense danger. They will even attack anything or anyone that they feel is a threat to the flock.
Have a Livestock Guardian Dog
If you have a larger property and a lot of predators, consider getting a livestock guardian dog. These breeds can be trained to protect livestock, including chickens, from predators such as coyotes, foxes, and raccoons.
Be Vigilant and Observant
Always watch your flock and regularly check for potential signs of predator activity, such as tracks, droppings, or feathers.
Free-ranging your chickens has many benefits for both the birds and their owners, but it also comes with risks. By following these tips and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure the safety of your flock while still allowing them to enjoy a more natural and fulfilling lifestyle.
By taking a few precautions and training your flock to come when called, your hens can free-range successfully around your home and property.
