The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: shygirl on September 11, 2015, 09:43:54 am

Title: Coaxing them out of the trees
Post by: shygirl on September 11, 2015, 09:43:54 am

wev built up a good flock of Scots Greys this year but the majority have took to roosting in the trees. with winter approaching, its not ideal. any tips on getting them to use the coop? we have a coop and a shed in their paddock so not overcrowded. I think only 3 out of 17 birds are using the coops. they are roosting 12ft up in the leylandi trees.

Title: Re: Coaxing them out of the trees
Post by: Jukes Mum on September 11, 2015, 09:49:36 am

Glad it's not just me! I was batting 3 out of a tree with a long stick again last night! Once out they run straight to the hut  :rant:
I think I'm going to cut the wing feathers so stop them flying up there.

Title: Re: Coaxing them out of the trees
Post by: Cosmore on September 11, 2015, 10:34:40 am

Hmm......cut the trees down?........ ;D .

Title: Re: Coaxing them out of the trees
Post by: chrismahon on September 11, 2015, 02:12:34 pm

If the area is secure you could just leave them to it Shygirl. Sure they will use the coop when the weather gets bad. Worth checking the coop for red mite as that may be discouraging them. If the area isn't secure can you decoy them, with treats before dark, into a run attached to the coop and then lock them in it so they have to use the coop?


We acquired a Leghorn bantam cock because the hens used to roost in the trees. One by one the fox took the first one down until only the cock remained.

Title: Re: Coaxing them out of the trees
Post by: Marches Farmer on September 11, 2015, 03:53:21 pm

Once food gets short the fox will stake out the trees.