To keep a hawk away from chickens, use protective netting, provide covered shelters, and employ decoys or scare tactics like reflective objects.
Hawks pose a serious threat to backyard chickens, especially during daylight hours when these aerial predators are most active. Protecting your flock requires smart strategies that deter hawks without harming these protected birds. This guide covers seven effective methods to safeguard your chickens.
Why Hawks Target Chickens
Hawks hunt chickens because they’re an easy food source. Chickens move slowly compared to wild prey and often wander in open areas. Three hawk species – red-tailed, Cooper’s, and sharp-shinned – are particularly known for attacking poultry flocks.
According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, a single hawk can kill multiple chickens in one attack, often leaving behind piles of feathers as the only evidence.
1. Install Protective Netting
Covering your chicken run with heavy-duty netting creates a physical barrier against hawks. Use 1-inch mesh netting rated for predator protection. Ensure the netting extends at least 3 feet beyond the run perimeter to prevent hawks from reaching through.
Types of Netting
- Polyethylene netting (most durable)
- Nylon netting (more affordable)
- Metal hardware cloth (best for small runs)
2. Use Scare Tactics
Hawks can be frightened away with visual deterrents. The key is to rotate these regularly so hawks don’t become accustomed to them.
Effective Scare Devices
| Device | How to Use |
|---|---|
| Scarecrows | Move every 2-3 days |
| Shiny objects | Hang CDs or pie tins |
| Decoy owls | Change positions weekly |
3. Provide Natural Cover
Chickens need hiding spots when hawks appear. Create sheltered areas with:
- Dense shrubs and bushes
- Low-hanging tree branches
- Temporary shelters like small coops
4. Add a Rooster to Your Flock
A vigilant rooster serves as an early warning system. He’ll spot hawks before hens do and sound an alarm. Good roosters will also herd hens to safety. Not all roosters are protective, so choose breeds known for guarding instincts like Rhode Island Reds or Australorps.
5. Use Guard Animals
Certain animals can help protect chickens from hawks:
- Dogs: Livestock guardian breeds like Great Pyrenees
- Geese: Excellent at spotting and deterring predators
- Turkeys: Will sound alarms and may fight smaller hawks
6. Modify Free-Ranging Habits
Limit free-ranging during peak hawk activity (10am-2pm). Consider using a secure run during these hours. The National Audubon Society notes that hawks hunt most actively in mid-morning when thermals are strongest.
7. Encourage Natural Hawk Deterrents
Some wild birds will chase away hawks. Attract crows and blue jays to your property by:
- Providing whole peanuts
- Offering suet feeders
- Keeping bird baths filled
When Attacks Happen
If a hawk kills one of your chickens, immediately implement additional protections. Hawks often return to successful hunting spots. Increase deterrents and consider confining chickens for a few days to break the pattern.
Remember that all hawk species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It’s illegal to harm or kill hawks, so focus on prevention rather than retaliation.