You might want to think about a rooster for them hens. They wear out faster than you think, and a rooster could make the flock self-perpetuating. Also another source of meat. Might have to get a larger hen house though.
www.backyardchickens.com
If you're a little worried about your neighbors, but not a lot, consider getting a watch animal. Traditional dog, or geese also make good watch animals. They are territorial and loud.
If you're really worried about you neighbors, kill them before they kill you.
Have you made preperations to keep your animals fed in hard times?