Falcons are a group of predatory birds, known as raptors, distinguished by their exceptional speed and aerial hunting prowess. These birds possess pointed wings and powerful flight muscles that allow them to pursue and capture other birds mid-flight. For those raising backyard flocks, this predatory nature raises a specific concern about the safety of domestic poultry. This article addresses the question of whether chickens are a target for falcons and provides practical methods for safeguarding a flock.
Falcon Diet and Poultry Risk
The typical diet of falcons consists overwhelmingly of other birds, often including pigeons, waterfowl, and songbirds, supplemented by insects and small rodents. Falcons are highly specialized aerial hunters, and their prey selection is usually dictated by what they can successfully catch in flight or subdue quickly. The risk to a chicken flock varies significantly depending on the specific falcon species present in the area.
Smaller species, such as the American Kestrel, primarily hunt large insects and very small birds, posing virtually no threat to adult chickens. Merlins are slightly larger and target small to medium-sized songbirds, making them a low-risk presence for most poultry. Larger falcons, however, present a higher risk, especially to young birds; Peregrine Falcons and the powerful Gyrfalcon are capable of taking larger prey like ducks and geese in the wild.
While an adult standard-sized chicken is generally too large and cumbersome for most falcons to successfully carry off, small or young poultry are vulnerable. Chicks, bantam chickens, and smaller breeds can be opportunistically targeted, particularly if wild prey is scarce.
Hunting Methods and Target Selection
Falcons are renowned for their high-speed hunting technique, most famously the “stoop,” a steep dive from a great height. During a stoop, a Peregrine Falcon can achieve speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour. This incredible velocity is used to strike prey with a closed fist of talons, either killing it instantly or disabling it in the air.
The method of attack is designed for fast, agile prey, but it also works effectively on exposed, slow-moving targets like chickens. A falcon’s primary motivation is to expend the least amount of energy for the greatest caloric return. Free-ranging chickens, which are often slow to react and lack the natural camouflage or evasive flying skills of wild birds, become appealing targets.
After a successful strike, the falcon typically disables the prey by biting the neck with a specialized notch on its beak. The exposed nature of many backyard flocks, without immediate overhead cover, makes target selection easy for a falcon scanning from above.
Strategies for Protecting Chickens
Protecting a flock from aerial predators requires a multi-layered approach using physical barriers and visual deterrents. The most effective method is to secure the run with overhead coverage, as falcons and other raptors always attack from above. Covering the enclosure with wire mesh, hardware cloth, or sturdy netting prevents a falcon from swooping down and provides a physical shield.
Flock management techniques can significantly reduce risk, especially for those who allow their birds to free-range. Supervised free-ranging ensures a human presence, which is often enough to deter a cautious raptor. Providing numerous hiding places, such as dense bushes, brush piles, or structures that the chickens can quickly dart under, gives the birds safe refuge when a shadow passes overhead.
Deterrents and Active Defense
Visual and noise deterrents can further discourage a hunting falcon from approaching the area. The unexpected flashes of light and movement can startle and confuse the predator.
Effective deterrents and defenses include:
- Hanging reflective items (e.g., old CDs, aluminum pie tins, Mylar tape) around the perimeter.
- Using noise deterrents to discourage approach.
- Introducing a large, watchful rooster.
- Employing a trained livestock guardian dog.