Keeping Your City Chickens Safe

When raising urban chickens, it is important to protect them from predators just as much as if you lived in the country. In the city, you might not come across as many or as many species of predatory animals, but there are always a few nonetheless. Here are a few things you should consider if you decide to raise backyard chickens:

1. Use a secure coop: A sturdy coop with a secure door and locking mechanism will keep chickens safe from predators such as raccoons and foxes. We recommend a Nestera Plastic Chicken Coop, as they are as predatory proof as they come. 
2. Purchase an automatic coop door opener like the Nestera Automatic Door Opener. The Nestera Automatic Door Opener can be set to open and close depending on light levels or at specific times, so you don't have to wake up when your chickens do! Or if you happen to be gone longer than you thought, it will also close the door so your chicks are safe when it gets dark. You could also use the manual open and close function if you choose. It’s weatherproof, easy to hook up to a Nestera Chicken Coop and has a 3 year warranty.
3. Use a secure run: If you choose to keep your chickens in a run, make sure it has a secure top, sides AND bottom so it will keep your chickens safe from aerial predators such as hawks and owls. Also consider what may dig under the run. If you are in an area with foxes and coyotes, you might want to consider surrounding the chicken’s run with a 2 foot wide apron of hardware cloth. You will want to bury it at least a few inches to a good foot under the ground’s surface. 
4. Keep chickens inside at night: Chickens should be kept inside their coop at night, as many predators are more active during the evening and early morning hours.
5. Keep the coop clean: Clean the coop regularly to remove any food scraps or manure that might attract predators. The Nestera Plastic Chicken coops are known for their ease of cleaning. And because they are made of ⅜” thick 100% recycled plastic with a modular design, they are quick to clean and dry and reassemble which comes handy especially in cold weather.
6. Use a motion-activated light or alarm: This can be an effective way to deter predators by surprising them with noise or light when they approach the coop.
7. Allow your dogs or cats to be around if possible: Some predators will avoid areas with animals that may attack them.
8. Keep your chickens close to you: Keeping your chickens close to your house or in a well-lit area can also deter predators.

It's important to note that laws and regulations regarding raising chickens in urban areas may vary by location. Make sure to check your local regulations before building a coop or run.