How We Are Keeping Free Range Chickens Off Our Deck | Building A Chicken Fence

Keeping free range chickens off of our stuff!? Having a yard for our chickens to free range in during the day was a great idea – until they started making a mess everywhere. We still want them to be out of their coop during the day, so we came up with this solution to keep them off of our deck and areas that we use for guests. The temporary fence has worked well for us so far and it was very easy to put up and install! Plus, it doesn’t look to bad in my opinion. What solutions have you come up with!? Let us know your best tips for free range chickens!

BUILDING A CHICKEN FENCE | Keeping Free Range Chickens Off Our Deck | Tampa Bay Urban Homesteading

Having free-range chickens can be a delightful experience, allowing your feathered friends to roam and explore. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between their freedom and protecting your property. In this blog post, we will explore practical tips on how to keep free-range chickens from getting all over your stuff without compromising their well-being.

1. Provide Adequate Space:
   One of the key factors in preventing chickens from wandering into unwanted areas is ensuring they have enough space in their designated area. A spacious and secure chicken coop or run will keep them occupied and reduce their desire to venture beyond its boundaries. Aim for at least 10 square feet per chicken in the coop and at least 25 square feet per chicken in the run.
2. Install Fencing:
   Setting up a sturdy and secure fence around your desired property boundaries is an effective way to keep chickens from accessing areas where they shouldn’t be. Opt for fencing with small wire mesh, as it prevents chickens from squeezing through. Ensure the fence is at least six feet high to discourage them from attempting to fly or jump over it.
3. Create Designated Areas:
   Consider creating designated areas for your chickens to roam freely while avoiding sensitive areas. Designate a specific part of your yard or garden where they can scratch and forage without causing damage. Use fencing or natural barriers like bushes or trees to clearly define these areas and guide the chickens to stay within them.
4. Use Natural Deterrents:
   Certain plants, herbs, or scents naturally repel chickens and can be strategically placed near areas you want to protect. For instance, planting rosemary, lavender, or marigolds around your garden can deter chickens from pecking at your prized plants. Citrus peels or coffee grounds scattered in specific areas can also act as effective deterrents.
5. Provide Enrichment:
   Chickens are naturally curious creatures, and keeping them mentally stimulated can help prevent them from venturing into restricted areas out of boredom. Offer them plenty of entertainment and enrichment within their designated space, such as hanging treat dispensers, providing perches, or adding objects they can explore and peck at. This will keep them content and less likely to wander.
6. Train and Redirect:
   Training your chickens to respond to specific cues can help keep them away from areas you want to protect. Using positive reinforcement, associate a particular sound, such as a whistle or a specific word, with a reward, like treats or mealworms. Regularly practice this training near your property boundaries, gradually increasing the distance until they associate the sound with staying within their designated area.
7. Secure Compost and Waste Bins:
   Chickens are notorious for seeking out compost and waste bins, which can lead to a messy situation. To prevent this, ensure that your compost and waste bins are securely closed or covered with lids. Consider using bins with a latch or lock to deter chickens from accessing them.
8. Supervise and Monitor:
   Regularly observing your chickens’ behavior and habits can help you identify any areas where they tend to stray. By keeping a close eye on them, you can proactively address any potential issues and make necessary adjustments to their environment or routines.
   
   With some thoughtful planning and a few precautions, you can strike a balance between allowing your free-range chickens to explore and keeping them away from areas where they can cause damage. By providing adequate space, using fencing, and implementing natural deterrents, you can create a harmonious environment where your chickens can roam freely without getting all over your stuff. Remember, a happy and fulfilled flock is less likely to wander astray.