To keep chickens away from your house, install barriers like fences, use repellents, and create designated feeding areas away from your home.
Chickens scratching near your foundation or pooping on your porch? While backyard chickens provide fresh eggs and entertainment, their natural behaviors can damage property. This guide reveals effective solutions to keep chickens away from your house without harming them.
Why Chickens Invade Your House Area
Chickens approach houses for three main reasons:
- Dust bathing spots: They love loose dirt near foundations
- Insect hunting: Bugs congregate near structures
- Shelter seeking: They hide under decks or porches
Understanding these motivations helps you implement targeted solutions. For more on chicken behavior, see our article on why chickens dig holes.
Physical Barrier Solutions
1. Install Proper Fencing
A 4-foot tall fence with 1-inch mesh keeps chickens contained. Bury the bottom 6 inches or add an apron to prevent digging. For small areas, hardware cloth works well.
2. Use Chicken-Proof Landscaping
Place these around your foundation:
Material | Effectiveness |
---|---|
River rocks (3+ inches) | Excellent |
Pinecone mulch | Good |
Wire mesh under mulch | Excellent |
Natural Repellents
3. Citrus Peels
Chickens dislike citrus. Scatter fresh orange or lemon peels around prohibited areas. Replace every 3-4 days.
4. Herbal Deterrents
Plant these near your house:
- Lavender
- Mint
- Lemongrass
Behavioral Training
5. Motion-Activated Sprinklers
The Orbit Bunker Hill sprinkler safely trains chickens to avoid areas without constant supervision.
6. Create Better Alternatives
Provide designated dust baths filled with sand and wood ash. Learn how to train chickens to use specific areas.
Structural Modifications
7. Install Foundation Protection
Use these methods:
- Install 12-inch wide pavers around the perimeter
- Place wire mesh under decorative rocks
- Create a gravel border at least 2 feet wide
For persistent problems, consider expanding their run space. Our guide on coop size for 10 chickens helps plan adequate space.
Special Considerations
If you have both chickens and dogs:
- Choose non-toxic repellents
- Ensure fences contain chickens but allow dog access
- Supervise all interactions
For sheetrock debris: While small amounts won’t harm chickens, remove visible pieces to prevent accidental consumption.