We used to let them (13 barred rocks) walk in and out of their coop that we surrounded with a large enclosure, but something- raccoon climbed in and went after them. Now we lock them in every night, and open them up every day. As it gets later, they are always waiting inside. All winter, unless there is bare ground we keep them inside. Last fall the neighbor's dog got under the fence and killed 4 of them. We tracked the feathers across the road.
I always listen for a commotion and clucking- tells you what's up. We are down to two. Last one came down with a cold of some kind. We've had them for six years or so. Our two have started laying again, egg each a day. We are thinking of some more barred rocks.
I'd like a rooster, but the last one wore the feathers off their backs, and the feathers at the back of their head. He was feisty and every three days went after us as well!
When we are home, I like to let them roam free on the lawn.
When young, they'd come and hop up on my lap if I was sitting on the deck!
