How to Prevent Bobcats and Coyotes from Preying on Your Chicken House and Run
Protecting your chickens from predatory animals like bobcats and coyotes is a common concern for chicken keepers. While some effective measures have been tried and tested, such as having a guard dog, implementing an electric fence, and ensuring the proper design of your chicken coop and run, it's important to consider local laws and safety measures.
Understanding the Predators
Bobbets and coyotes are efficient predators, and dealing with them requires a combination of knowledge and action. Some uncertainties exist about exactly how to manage these animals, especially regarding bobcats. However, a well-trained and active guard dog can play a significant role in deterring these threats.
Protective Measures
1. Guard Dogs
One of the most effective methods to deter bobcats and coyotes is by having a large, agitated guard dog. German shepherds, Great Pyrenees, and Anatolian shepherds are popular choices among farmers and backyard chicken keepers. These dogs are known for their protectiveness and their ability to stand their ground.
Our uncle, who has been keeping chickens for as long as anyone can remember, has found that having two German shepherds in his yard has protected his chickens from coyotes. Guard dogs not only alert you to the presence of predators but also actively chase them off.
2. Electric Fences
Another effective way to prevent predators from accessing your chicken house and run is by installing an electric fence. An electrified perimeter around the coop and run will deter both bobcats and coyotes from entering the area. It's crucial to ensure that the electric fence is properly maintained and that the wires are grounded appropriately.
3. Coop and Run Design
Designing your chicken coop and run with predator-proofing in mind can significantly reduce the risk of attacks by bobcats and coyotes. Install chicken wire around the base of the coop and run, extending a few feet into the ground. This can prevent predators from digging under the structures to gain access to the chickens.
Additionally, consider placing rocks around the perimeter to create an impenetrable barrier that predators may find too challenging to navigate.
4. Legal Considerations and Safety
Shooting coyotes is an option in some areas, but it's important to be aware of local laws. Laws regarding the hunting and killing of bobcats can be more complex and seasonal. Always check with your local game authority before taking any action.
If you're uncomfortable with killing predators, other tactics can be employed. When you spot a predator, make loud noises, use deterrent sprays, or throw stones to scare them away. These methods can be effective in temporarily deterring the animals from your property.
Additional Strategies
For more proactive protection, you might consider seeking the services of a Livestock Guardian Dog (LGD). LGDs are not a specific breed but a type of dog that is trained to protect livestock from predators. Breeds such as the Turkish Boz K?lisel, Komondor, and Kuvasz are well-known LGDs.
According to the Wikipedia article on Livestock Guardian Dogs, these dogs have been used effectively to protect livestock from various predators, including coyotes and bobcats. They are known for their intelligence, protectiveness, and their ability to establish a trusting bond with their herd.
Conclusion
Protecting your chickens from bobcats and coyotes is a mix of understanding the behavior of these predators and employing effective protective measures. Whether it's through the use of guard dogs, electric fencing, or the implementation of proper coop and run design, there are multiple strategies that can help. Stay vigilant and stay informed about local laws to ensure both the safety of your chickens and the well-being of your property.