If you’re a chicken owner, you know how much your feathered friends love to explore and peck at everything in sight. Unfortunately, that can include your porch, where they can cause damage and leave a mess. Luckily, there are several effective ways to keep chickens off your porch and preserve your property.
One of the simplest ways to keep chickens off your porch is by using physical barriers like fencing or netting. This can be especially helpful if your porch is low to the ground and easily accessible for your feathered friends.
By implementing these methods, you can enjoy your porch without worrying about your chickens causing damage or leaving a mess.
1. Secure Your Porch
If you want to keep chickens off your porch, the first thing you should consider is securing the area. There are a few ways to do this, including installing fencing or using netting.
Install Fencing
Fencing is an effective way to keep chickens out of your porch area. You can install a fence around your porch or deck to keep the chickens from accessing it. There are many different types of fencing you can use, including chicken wire, welded wire, or chain link.
When installing fencing, make sure it is at least 6 feet tall to prevent the chickens from being able to jump over it. You can also bury the fencing underground to prevent the chickens from digging under it.
Use Netting
Netting is another option for securing your porch area. You can use bird netting to cover your porch or deck to keep the chickens out. Netting is lightweight and easy to install, and it is also an affordable option.
When using netting, make sure it is tightly secured to prevent the chickens from getting through any gaps. You can also use stakes or weights to keep the netting in place.
Overall, securing your porch area with fencing or netting is an effective way to keep chickens off your porch. This is especially important if you have free-range chickens that like to roam around your yard. By creating a designated area for them to stay in, you can keep them from causing damage to your porch and other areas of your property.
2. Use Deterrents
One effective way to keep chickens off your porch is by using deterrents. In this section, we will discuss two types of deterrents that have been found to be effective: motion-activated sprinklers and fake predators.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Motion-activated sprinklers are a humane way to keep chickens off your porch. These sprinklers turn on when they detect motion, scaring away the chickens without harming them. They are easy to install and can be adjusted to cover the specific area you want to protect.
When using motion-activated sprinklers, it is important to place them strategically. You want to make sure that the sprinklers cover the area where the chickens are entering your porch. You can also adjust the sensitivity of the sprinklers to make sure they only activate when the chickens are nearby.
Fake Predators
Another effective deterrent is the use of fake predators. Chickens are naturally afraid of predators such as hawks and owls. By placing fake predators on or near your porch, you can scare away the chickens.
There are many types of fake predators available, including decoy owls and hawks. These decoys are designed to look realistic and can be placed on your porch or nearby trees. Some decoys even have moving parts, such as wings that flap in the wind, to make them even more realistic.
When using fake predators, it is important to move them around periodically. Chickens are intelligent animals and can quickly learn that the decoys are not real. By moving the decoys around, you can keep the chickens guessing and make it more difficult for them to get comfortable on your porch.
In summary, motion-activated sprinklers and fake predators are two effective deterrents that can help keep chickens off your porch. By using these methods, you can protect your porch and keep your chickens safe at the same time.
3. Plant Herbs and Flowers
Planting certain herbs and flowers around your porch can help deter chickens from entering your space. Here are some options to consider:
Lavender and Mint
Lavender and mint are both great options for keeping chickens away. Not only do they have a strong scent that chickens dislike, but they also add a lovely aroma to your porch. Plant them in pots or in the ground near your porch to keep chickens at bay.
Marigolds and Petunias
Marigolds and petunias are colorful and beautiful flowers that can also serve as a chicken deterrent. Chickens tend to avoid these plants, so consider planting them in pots or around the perimeter of your porch.
Thyme and Oregano
Thyme and oregano are both herbs that have a strong scent and taste. Chickens tend to dislike these herbs, so planting them around your porch can help keep them away. Plus, you can use these herbs in your cooking!
Lemon Balm and Chamomile
Lemon balm and chamomile are both herbs that have a calming effect on humans. However, chickens tend to avoid them due to their strong scent. Plant them in pots or in the ground near your porch to help keep chickens away.
Alyssum and Impatiens
Alyssum and impatiens are both low-growing flowers that can be planted in pots or in the ground. They have a strong scent that chickens dislike, making them a great option for keeping chickens off your porch.
By planting these herbs and flowers around your porch, you can create a natural barrier that will help keep chickens away. Plus, they add beauty and fragrance to your space.
4. Build a Coop or Shed
If you have a larger flock of chickens, building a coop or shed may be the best option to keep them off your porch. Here are some tips to make sure your coop or shed is effective.
Provide Perches
Chickens naturally like to perch at night, so providing perches in the coop can help keep them off your porch. Make sure the perches are high enough off the ground so that predators cannot reach them. A good rule of thumb is to have the perches at least two feet off the ground.
Train Chickens
Training your chickens to use the coop or shed can take some time, but it is worth the effort. Start by keeping them in the coop or shed for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time until they are comfortable staying there overnight. You can also use treats to encourage them to go inside.
Coop or Shed Design
When designing your coop or shed, make sure it is predator-proof. Use sturdy materials and secure locks to keep predators out. You should also make sure the coop or shed is well-ventilated and has enough space for your chickens to move around comfortably.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your coop or shed clean is crucial for the health of your chickens. Regularly remove soiled bedding and replace it with fresh bedding. You should also clean and disinfect the coop or shed at least once a month.
5. Clean Up Droppings
One of the biggest concerns with having chickens on your porch is the mess they can leave behind. Chicken droppings are not only unsightly, but they can also carry harmful bacteria that can make you sick. Here are a few tips for cleaning up after your backyard chickens:
- Clean up droppings regularly: Make it a habit to clean up any droppings on your porch or deck daily. Use a broom and dustpan or a handheld vacuum to pick up any droppings. Dispose of them in a sealed plastic bag and throw them away in the trash.
- Use a hose or pressure washer: If your porch or deck is made of a washable material, you can use a hose or pressure washer to clean up any remaining droppings. Make sure to use a mild detergent and rinse the area thoroughly.
- Use a bird repellent: To discourage birds of prey from coming near your porch or deck, you can use a bird repellent. Hang yellow ribbons or shiny objects like CDs or aluminum foil to deter birds of prey from coming near.
- Keep chicken feed contained: One way to reduce the amount of droppings on your porch or deck is to keep chicken feed contained. Use a feeder that is designed to keep the feed off the ground and away from your porch or deck.
- Train your chickens: If your chickens are allowed to roam freely around your yard, you can train them to stay away from your porch or deck. Use treats to lure them away from the area and reward them when they stay away.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can keep your porch or deck clean and free of chicken droppings. Remember to clean up regularly and use bird repellents to discourage birds of prey from coming near.
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