Spring's Here! Keep Predators at Bay as You Begin Free-Ranging Again

Spring is finally upon us, and for many poultry owners, that means one thing: free-ranging! After a long winter cooped up, our feathered friends are eager to peck at fresh greens, chase bugs, and soak up some sunshine. But with the warmer weather and increased outdoor activity comes a heightened risk of predators. Don't let your flock become an easy meal!

At Egg Brigade, we know how much you care about your chickens. That's why, alongside providing your flock with the protein-packed goodness of our black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), we want to help you ensure their safety. Let's dive into some practical ways to protect your coop and free-ranging chickens:

1. Fortify Your Coop:

• Secure Fencing: Start with a sturdy coop. Ensure all walls, doors, and windows are intact. Use heavy-duty wire mesh (hardware cloth) with openings no larger than 1/2 inch to prevent predators from squeezing through.
• Reinforced Doors and Latches: Raccoons and other clever predators can easily manipulate flimsy latches. Use locking mechanisms that require more than a simple nudge to open.
• Dig-Proof Barriers: Predators like foxes and dogs can dig under fences. Bury wire mesh at least 12 inches deep around the coop's perimeter, or create an L-shaped footer extending outwards.

• Overhead Protection: If your run is open-topped, consider adding netting or wire mesh to prevent hawks and owls from swooping down. Be sure to add items like hanging CD’s or reflective pinwheels to scare predators away so that you don’t inadvertently trap and injure an animal.

2. Free-Ranging Safety:

• Supervised Free-Ranging: The safest option is to supervise your chickens while they're out. If that's not possible, restrict free-ranging to daylight hours.
• Electric Fencing: An electric fence around the free-ranging area can deter larger predators.

• Guardian Animals: Consider adding a guardian animal, like a livestock guardian dog or a goose. These animals can act as a deterrent and alert you to potential threats.

• Provide Shelter: Offer plenty of hiding spots within the free-ranging area, such as bushes, pallets, or chicken tractors. This gives your chickens a place to escape if a predator appears.
• Regular Checks: Before dusk, do a thorough check to ensure all chickens are safely back in the coop.

3. Predator Deterrents:

• Motion-Activated Lights and Sprinklers: These can startle predators and discourage them from approaching.
• Predator Decoys: Owl or coyote decoys can sometimes deter predators, but they need to be moved regularly to remain effective.
• Strong Coop Lighting: A well-lit coop can deter nocturnal predators.
• Remove Attractants: Keep your coop and surrounding area clean. Remove any food scraps or spilled feed that could attract predators.

4. Nutritional Support with Black Soldier Fly Larvae:

• A healthy chicken is a more alert chicken. By providing your flock with the high protein and calcium of our BSFL, you're ensuring they have the strength and vitality to avoid and escape predators.
• BSFL are a natural and delicious way to supplement your chickens' diet, especially during the active free-ranging season.
• BSFL also provide a high amount of lauric acid, that helps support a healthy immune system, which can be stressed during the increased activity of the spring.

Spring is a time for enjoyment, not worry. By taking these precautions and supplementing your flock's diet with the nutritious boost of Egg Brigade's Black Soldier Fly Larvae, you can help ensure your chickens have a safe and happy free-ranging season.

BSFL from Egg Brigade are an excellent source of protein, fats and essential minerals always harvested in the United States under strict quality-control. Available as a single purchase or ongoing subscription, we offer 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, and 10lb options.

We would love to see what other DIY ideas you come up with as you raise your chicks. Let us know in the comments.