Personal experience
A neighbor has constructed and populated a small backyard chicken coop about 100 yards from the back fence in my yard. Within a few days, I saw more hawks and owls circling the area, resting in the tall oaks and casting shadows as they flew over our neighborhood.
Startled by the shadow of a swooping red-tail hawk I watched a massive one dive-bomb across my yard only two or three feet off the ground. Its wingspan was easily 48 inches wide. I wondered if neighbors with puppies, little dogs and kittens were aware of the new chicken attraction for local birds of prey.
Changes in our neighborhoods often adjust how pets and families interact with wildlife. We’re sharing these articles as reminders to safeguard pets and backyard animals from potentially dangerous encounters with wildlife.
Sources:
- Birds notorious for snatching small dogs, Puppies and Pooches, July 2021. Link.
- Protecting chickens from predators, Backyard Poultry, May 16, 2022. Link.
- Urban wildlife, NebraskaLand, May 2022. Link.
- Woman’s genius plan to keep hawks away from her little dog is too funny, PetHelpful, May 20, 2022. Link. (video)
INSIGHTS: Social media and newsletters are effective ways to educate pet owners about wildlife safety, especially avian predators. Consider sharing safety information with local media as well.