How to Keep Hawks Away from Chickens Using Bird Netting – The Ultimate Defense

You're trying to keep hawks away from your chickens. You've read, researched and watched tutorials on how to do so. But no matter what you do, it doesn't work! The hawk just keeps coming back for more chicken blood. 

And this is the situation that many chicken owners find themselves in when they first set up their coop and flock. 

So if you've been reading all the tips out there on how to keep a hawk away from chickens but still having no luck at all – don't worry! We're here to help you solve this problem once and for all.

How Is A Hawk A Big Threat To Chickens?

Hawks are a big threat to chickens. They hunt by sight, not sound, and can see and hear from great distances. Hawks are attracted to the sight and sound of chickens, as well as their movement. 

Unfortunately for you and your flock, hawks don't just sit around waiting for prey. They actively search for it by patrolling an area in search of weak or vulnerable animals (such as your chickens).

In a survey conducted by the Backyard Chickens forum, out of 238 respondents, 51% reported experiencing at least one hawk attack on their chickens. This highlights the prevalence of hawk attacks in backyard poultry settings.

A poultry farmer in New York reported that, in 2017, she lost 12 chickens within a week due to hawk attacks. The farmer had to implement various measures, such as installing netting and providing hiding spots for the chickens, to help reduce the number of attacks.

In 2018, a backyard chicken keeper in Texas shared her experience of losing 7 out of 12 chickens to a hawk attack in a single day. The incident highlights the devastating impact a single hawk can have on a small flock.

Common Methods of Protection To Chickens

While there are several methods commonly employed to protect chickens from hawks, it's important to understand their limitations and shortcomings.

 Let's explore some of these methods:

1. Scare Devices: Scare devices such as fake predators, like owls or snakes, are often used to deter hawks. While they can be effective initially, hawks may become accustomed to their presence over time, reducing their effectiveness. Furthermore, scare devices have limited coverage, making them less suitable for larger areas.
2. Dogs or Roosters: Some chicken owners rely on guard dogs or roosters to protect their flock. These animals can serve as effective deterrents, but they require proper training and supervision. Additionally, not all chicken owners have the space or resources to accommodate dogs or roosters.
3. Making Noise: Making loud noises or using auditory deterrents is another method used to discourage hawks. However, this approach may only provide temporary relief, as hawks can adapt to these disturbances. It also requires constant vigilance and can be inconvenient for homeowners and neighbors.
4. Common Decoys: Decoys, such as plastic owls or falcons, are often used to create the illusion of a predatory presence. While they can initially deter hawks, they may lose their effectiveness over time. Hawks are intelligent and can distinguish real threats from decoys, especially if the decoys remain stationary.

While these methods may offer some level of protection, they are not foolproof and may not provide comprehensive coverage.

The Ultimate Solution: Bird Netting

Bird netting has proven to be an effective method for keeping hawks away from chickens. 

It acts as a physical barrier, preventing hawks from accessing your flock. 

The netting is made of durable and lightweight materials that allow for adequate airflow and sunlight while keeping predatory birds at bay. 

Bird netting is a humane solution that doesn't cause harm to the hawks but instead redirects them to seek prey elsewhere.

Benefits of Bird Netting

Versatility: Bird netting is a versatile solution that can be used to protect various areas. Whether you have a small chicken coop, a larger poultry run, or a garden with valuable crops, bird netting can be customized to suit your specific needs. It can be easily adjusted to cover different shapes and sizes, providing comprehensive protection.

Durability: High-quality bird netting is designed to withstand various weather conditions and environmental factors. It is typically made from durable materials such as polyethylene or nylon, which are resistant to tears and UV rays. This ensures the longevity of the netting, allowing for long-term use and protection.

Affordability: Bird netting is a cost-effective solution compared to other methods of protection. It offers a relatively low-cost investment that provides significant value in safeguarding your chickens. With proper installation and maintenance, bird netting can offer years of reliable defense against hawks and other predatory birds.

Humane Solution: Unlike some deterrent methods that may harm or kill hawks, bird netting offers a humane approach to protect both your chickens and the hawks themselves. It acts as a physical barrier, redirecting hawks to seek prey elsewhere without causing any harm to them. This ensures a safe and ethical solution for all parties involved.

Installing Bird Netting Made Easy

Installing bird netting doesn't have to be overwhelming. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have your ultimate defense in place to keep hawks away from your chickens:

1. Measure the Area: Begin by measuring the area you want to protect with bird netting. Take note of the length and width required to ensure proper coverage.
2. Prepare the Support System: Install a sturdy support system to hold the bird netting in place. This can be as simple as using wooden or metal stakes, or existing structures such as fences or posts. Space the supports evenly along the perimeter of the area.
3. Attach the Netting: Unroll the bird netting and attach it to the support system using clips, zip ties, or bungee cords. Start from one end and work your way across, ensuring the netting is taut and securely fastened to the supports. Take care to cover the entire area without leaving any gaps or openings.

That's it! With these three easy steps, you can successfully install bird netting to protect your chickens from hawks.

Maintenance and Tips

To keep your bird netting in optimal condition and ensure long-lasting protection, follow these simple maintenance tips:

1. Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect the netting for any signs of damage or wear. Look for tears, holes, or loose sections. Repair or replace damaged portions promptly to maintain the integrity of the barrier.
2. Keep Surrounding Areas Clear: Trim any overhanging branches or vegetation near the netting. This prevents hawks from perching above the netting and potentially finding a way through. Maintaining clear surroundings enhances the effectiveness of the netting.
3. Clean the Netting: Over time, dirt, dust, or debris may accumulate on the netting. Clean it gently with a soft brush or hose to maintain optimal visibility and airflow. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the netting.
4. Ensure Proper Tension: Regularly check the tension of the netting and adjust as needed. Ensure it remains taut and securely fastened to the support system. This helps prevent sagging and potential entry points for hawks.
5. Monitor Chicken Behavior: Observe your chickens' behavior within the protected area. If you notice any signs of distress or attempted breaches by hawks, inspect the netting for any vulnerabilities. Reinforce weak spots promptly to maintain effective protection.

By following these straightforward steps and practicing regular maintenance, you can keep your bird netting in excellent condition, ensuring optimal defense against hawks and peace of mind for you and your chickens.

Success Stories of Using Bird Netting Against Hawks

Many chicken owners have successfully protected their flocks from hawks using our bird netting. They have witnessed a significant decrease in hawk attacks and have enjoyed the benefits of a secure and thriving chicken flock. 

 

Source: Amazon-product-reviews-Harvesto-bird-nets

Testimonials from these success stories highlight the effectiveness and peace of mind that our bird netting provides, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone concerned about hawk predation.

Conclusion

Bird netting proves to be the ultimate defense against hawk attacks, providing valuable protection for your chickens. With its numerous advantages over other methods of protection, its versatility allows for custom fitting to various areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage. 

Now is the time to take action and secure the safety of your chickens. We highly recommend investing in our Harvesto Bird netting, so that you can provide your flock with the protection they need while enjoying peace of mind. 

Our Harvesto Bird netting stands out among other brands as "tangle-free bird nets" specifically designed for chicken growers and raisers. Installing our netting is less stressful and time-consuming, saving you from the frustration of tangled nets.

Moreover, our netting is built to last. Once it's installed, it provides years of reliable defense without easily tearing or ripping like other inferior products on the market. You won't have to go through the hassle of reinstalling the netting repeatedly.

Don't let hawk attacks threaten your chickens' well-being. Choose the best defense available.

Act now and create a secure environment for your chickens with these tangle-free bird nets.