Protection from Red Kits/Buzzards/Birds of prey

[Pisky]

Our large run is finally ready and the chicken house in it. However I am a bit concerned as we have Red Kites who regularly circle above the garden. Are they likely to attack the chickens (Wyandotte Bantams)?

The run has 6 foot high fencing so they can't get out (and dug in around so foxes shouldn't be able to get in - will be shut in their house at night anyway).

It has no roof though (and is too big to cover the whole thing).

Am I worrying too much? Would a few strings tired across the posts help to deter flying predators?

Only had them three weeks but getting attached to them already. Got 5 pullets and a cockerel.

Thanks!

[mummymeister]

Having chickens is a bit of nightmare when it comes to predators. i have just lost 5 and 3 ducks to a stoat when we thought we had done everything right! i have friends who strung some string across the top of the run with bits of foil on it to deter the birds but as the saying goes "if they are going to get in, they are going to get in!" Sorry if i am not being very helpful but i think you have done all you can to protect them.

[Pisky]

Thanks - I'll chill and see how it goes.

Might put a shelter in their run so if they spot anything they can run and hide quickly instead of filing in through the poop hole in turn.

[Jammygal]

My mum lost one to a red kite on the weekend ;)

[Daveschooks]

Just logging on to say cNt help,but look at my Wyandotte and pekin babies on my photos!