To protect chickens from hawks, provide covered outdoor runs, use netting, and install visual deterrents like reflective tape or plastic owls.
Hawks pose a serious threat to free-range chickens, but with the right strategies, you can significantly reduce attacks. This guide covers physical barriers, natural deterrents, and behavioral tactics that work together to create a safer environment for your flock.
1. Install Protective Netting and Roofs
Covering your chicken run with hardware cloth or bird netting creates a physical barrier against aerial attacks. Use 1/2-inch mesh to prevent hawks from reaching through.
Types of Coverage:
- Permanent welded wire roofs for stationary runs
- Removable netting for temporary enclosures
- Portable hoop structures for rotating grazing areas
For maximum protection, extend netting at least 3 feet beyond the run perimeter to prevent hawks from swooping in at angles. Check our guide on proper run sizing to ensure adequate space.
2. Create Multiple Hiding Spots
Chickens instinctively seek cover when threatened. Provide various shelters throughout their range:
| Shelter Type | Protection Level | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dense shrubs/bushes | High | $$ |
| Low wooden shelters | Medium | $ |
| Tarp-covered areas | Medium | $ |
Position shelters every 15-20 feet so chickens can always reach safety quickly. Learn more about introducing chickens to new spaces to help them learn shelter locations.
3. Use Visual Deterrents
Hawks can be scared away by moving, reflective objects. Rotate these deterrents weekly to maintain effectiveness:
Effective Options:
- Old CDs or DVDs hung from strings
- Aluminum pie pans
- Scarecrow owls (move positions frequently)
- Mylar balloons
According to Backyard Poultry, pie pans strung over grazing areas provide nearly 100% protection when properly spaced.
4. Employ Livestock Guardian Animals
Certain animals naturally protect chickens from predators:
Best Guardian Options:
- Roosters – Alert hens to danger and defend the flock
- Geese – Loud alarms and aggressive defense
- Dogs – Disrupt predator patterns (train carefully)
- Donkeys – Naturally dislike canines and birds of prey
The National Audubon Society recommends using guardian animals as part of a multi-pronged approach rather than sole protection.
5. Modify Free-Ranging Times
Hawks hunt most actively during specific times:
- Mid-morning (9-11 AM)
- Early afternoon (1-3 PM)
Limit free-ranging during these high-risk periods, especially in spring when hawks are feeding young. Use covered runs instead.
6. Encourage Natural Hawk Deterrents
Some wild birds help keep hawks away:
- Crows – Mob and harass hawks
- Blue jays – Sound alarms and attack smaller hawks
- Mockingbirds – Aggressively defend territories
Attract these allies by providing whole peanuts, suet, and maintaining bird-friendly habitats near your coop.
7. Train Your Chickens to Respond to Threats
Teach your flock to recognize danger signals and respond appropriately:
- Use consistent alarm calls (whistle or shout) when you spot hawks
- Reward chickens that run to shelter
- Practice “lockdown drills” to reinforce safe behaviors
This training works best when started with young chickens and reinforced regularly. The methods complement recall training techniques for better overall safety.