I notice more hawks now than even ten years ago. I think the problem is because as the human population increases and steadily grows into what once was "their" territory (suburbs and out in the country) we are more aware of them. Also as they are federally protected birds and have few natural predators their numbers are increasing.
There are things you can hang in trees and the motion is supposed to scare away birds. Also, I've heard a fake rubber snake (big ones) placed in a tree will scare owls away, but I've never tried it, so I don't know if they work.
Just to be safe I never let my two out but what I'm not right there with them. And, even that isn't always going to save them. I've heard of hawks or owls swooping down and carrying away a small dog with the owner right there.
__________________  ~Ruby, Reno, Razz, & Jack~ |