To deter hawks from chickens, use protective netting, provide covered shelters, and employ visual deterrents like shiny objects or decoys in the area.
Hawks pose a serious threat to backyard chickens, especially during daylight hours when these raptors actively hunt. Protecting your flock requires smart strategies that deter predators without harming protected bird species. This guide covers effective methods to safeguard your chickens while respecting wildlife laws.
Understanding Hawk Behavior
Three hawk species in North America are commonly called “chicken hawks”:
- Red-tailed hawks (most common chicken predators)
- Cooper’s hawks
- Sharp-shinned hawks
Hawks typically hunt from elevated perches or while soaring. They prefer open areas where they can spot prey easily. Understanding this helps create effective deterrents.
Physical Protection Methods
1. Covered Runs and Shelters
Install hardware cloth or netting over your chicken run. The mesh should be 1/2 inch or smaller to prevent hawks from reaching through. Provide multiple shelters where chickens can hide when threatened.
As noted in our article on proper coop sizing, adequate space with protection is crucial for flock safety.
2. Strategic Landscaping
Plant dense shrubs and bushes around your property. These provide natural cover where chickens can hide. Evergreens work well year-round. Create multiple sheltered pathways between feeding areas.
Visual Deterrents
3. Reflective Objects
Hang old CDs, aluminum pie pans, or reflective tape around the coop area. The movement and flashes of light confuse hawks. Change positions weekly to maintain effectiveness.
4. Scare Devices
Use rotating scarecrows, fake owls, or predator decoys. According to Backyard Poultry, moving these regularly prevents hawks from becoming accustomed to them.
Biological Controls
5. Guardian Animals
Roosters provide excellent aerial predator warnings. A good rooster will:
- Scan the skies constantly
- Sound alarm calls at threats
- Gather hens in protected areas
Dogs can also deter hawks when properly trained. As mentioned in our guide on chicken self-defense, guardian animals significantly improve flock safety.
6. Encourage Natural Hawk Deterrents
Crows and blue jays often harass hawks. Avoid scaring these birds away from your property. Some chicken keepers report success by providing peanuts to attract jays.
Free-Ranging Strategies
7. Supervised Outdoor Time
If you free-range your chickens:
- Vary their schedule unpredictably
- Provide multiple shelters in the yard
- Stay nearby during high-risk hours (mid-morning to afternoon)
- Use portable shade structures with hiding spots
The University of Kentucky Extension recommends rotating grazing areas to prevent predator pattern recognition.
Additional Protection Tips
| Method | Effectiveness | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Overhead netting | High | Monthly inspection |
| Reflective tape | Medium | Weekly adjustment |
| Guardian animals | High | Daily care |
Remember that hawks are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Non-lethal deterrents are the only legal option. Combining several methods provides the best protection for your flock.