How to Repel Chickens: 11 Steps
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1. Fence-In Your Yard: Building a chicken-proof fence around your yard is an effective method to keep out unwanted chickens. Choose a wire mesh or chain-link fence material at least 4 feet high, and bury the fence at least one foot into the ground to prevent the chickens from digging underneath.
2. Make Use of Chicken Deterrent Plants: Some plants emit smells that are unpleasant to chickens. Plant these around your yard or garden area to create a natural barrier. Examples include lavender, rosemary, marigolds, and chrysanthemums.
3. Create a Distraction-Free Zone: Place reflective surfaces, like aluminum pie pans or wind chimes, near your garden area to make it visually unappealing for chickens. The constant movement and noise will confuse and deter them from entering.
4. Use Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Set up motion-activated sprinklers that will spray water whenever a chicken comes near the protected area. Not only will it startle the birds away but also maintain your plants’ hydration.
5. Implement Chicken Repellent Sprays: Homemade or store-bought chicken repellent sprays can be applied to plants or surfaces that you want chickens to avoid. These sprays usually have a strong scent, such as garlic or citrus, which repels chickens.
6. Utilize Noise-Makers: Chickens can be frightened by loud noises such as banging pots and pans, whistles, or air horns. Use these intermittently as needed when you see chickens in your yard.
7. Set Up a Roosting Deterrent: Chickens love to roost at night and enjoy finding elevated and flat areas for resting. Make roosting spots unappealing by using bird spikes or placing an unstable cover on their preferred surfaces.
8. Keep Food Sources Away: Chickens are attracted by food. Make sure to remove pet food bowls and bird feeders from your yard and keep compost bins covered. Keeping your space clean and free from potential food sources is key to repelling chickens.
9. Get a Dog: Chickens are naturally afraid of predators, and a well-trained dog, especially one bred for herding like a Border Collie, can help keep chickens away from your yard by patrolling the area.
10. Use Visual Deterrents: Chickens can be scared off by the sight of predatory birds like hawks or owls. Put up realistic-looking decoys in trees or other visible spots around your property to scare away chickens.
11. Speak with Your Neighbors: If you suspect that chickens wandering into your yard are coming from neighbors who keep them as pets, have a friendly conversation with them about the issue. They may have suggestions or be willing to adjust their chicken-keeping practices to help alleviate the problem.
By following these 11 steps, you’ll increase your chances of successfully repelling chickens from your yard and maintaining a peaceful outdoor environment for you to enjoy.