To keep free-range chickens on your property, ensure a secure, spacious environment with adequate shelter, food, water, and protection from predators.
Free range chickens offer many benefits, from tastier eggs to natural pest control. But keeping them contained and safe requires planning. This guide covers everything you need to know about managing free range chickens on your property.
Essential Requirements for Free Range Chickens
Secure Fencing
A good fence is the first line of defense. Chicken wire works but consider:
- 4-6 foot height to prevent jumping
- Buried 12 inches to stop digging predators
- Electric fencing for extra protection
Proper Shelter
Chickens need:
- A sturdy coop for nighttime protection
- Roosting bars at least 2 feet off the ground
- Nesting boxes (1 per 3-4 hens)
Food and Water Stations
Place multiple feeding stations around your property to encourage chickens to stay nearby. Use hanging waterers to keep water clean.
Training Chickens to Stay in Your Yard
Boundary Training
Like how chickens learn yard boundaries, you can train them:
- Walk the perimeter daily with treats
- Use visual markers like garden flags
- Gently herd them back when they stray
Recall Training
Teach chickens to come when called using these chicken training techniques:
- Use a distinct call before feeding
- Reward with high-value treats
- Practice daily at the same time
Predator Protection Strategies
| Predator | Protection Method |
|---|---|
| Foxes | Electric fencing, guard animals |
| Hawks | Overhead netting, shelter options |
| Raccoons | Secure latches, night lockdown |
Natural Deterrents
According to Mother Earth News, these plants help repel predators:
- Marigolds around coop perimeter
- Rosemary and lavender bushes
- Thorny bushes like blackberry
Managing Free Range Time
Supervised vs Unsupervised
Consider these schedules:
- Morning only (predators less active)
- After work until dusk
- Weekends when home all day
Rotational Grazing
The Prairie Homestead recommends:
- Divide property into zones
- Rotate chickens every 1-2 weeks
- Allows vegetation to recover
Dealing With Common Issues
Neighbor Relations
If chickens roam onto other properties:
- Talk to neighbors immediately
- Offer fresh eggs as goodwill
- Install visual barriers
Garden Protection
To protect your plants:
- Use chicken-proof fencing
- Plant chicken-resistant varieties
- Create designated dust bath areas
Alternative Solutions
Chicken Tractors
Mobile coops offer:
- Controlled grazing
- Protection from predators
- Easy relocation
Run Extensions
Expand your existing run with:
- Covered outdoor space
- Multiple levels and perches
- Foraging opportunities
With proper planning and management, free ranging can work well for both chickens and their owners. The key is balancing freedom with safety and good neighbor relations.