When chickens free-range they can attract snakes who view the chickens as potential prey. To keep your chickens safe from snakes there are a few things you can do:
1. Build a snake-proof fence.
To keep snakes out of your chicken coop you’ll need to build a fence that’s tall enough and burying it several inches into the ground. The fence should also be tight against the ground so that there are no gaps for snakes to slither through.
2. Keep the area around the chicken coop clean.
Snakes are attracted to areas that are cluttered with debris so it’s important to keep the area around your chicken coop clean. This will make it less likely for snakes to take up residence near your chickens.
3. Use snake repellents.
There are a variety of snake repellents available on the market. You can choose to use natural repellents such as cayenne pepper or garlic or you can opt for commercial repellents. Whichever type of repellent you use be sure to reapply it regularly as snakes can become accustomed to the scent over time.
4. Remove potential food sources.
If there are rodents or other small animals near your chicken coop they can attract snakes who are looking for a meal. To help deter snakes remove potential food sources from the area around your coop. This may involve setting traps or using a product that will keep rodents away.
5. Keep your chickens healthy.
When chickens are healthy they are less likely to attract snakes. To keep your chickens healthy provide them with a nutritious diet and clean water. Additionally make sure their coop is clean and free from debris.
How can I keep snakes out of my chicken coop?
Answer: By making sure the perimeter of the coop is free of debris and vegetation and that there are no cracks or holes for snakes to slither through.
You can also use a snake repellent around the coop.
What attracts snakes to chicken coops?
Answer: Snakes are attracted to chicken coops because they offer shelter and a potential food source in the form of chickens.
How can I tell if a snake is in my chicken coop?
Answer: You may be able to see the snake or you may find tell-tale signs such as snake skin shed eggs or chicken carcasses.
Is it harmful to have a snake in my chicken coop?
Answer: Yes it can be harmful as snakes may prey on chickens or their eggs.
Additionally some snakes can be poisonous and pose a risk to humans if they are handled.
How do I remove a snake from my chicken coop?
Answer: The best way to remove a snake is to carefully trap it and then release it into the wild away from your chicken coop.
How can I prevent snakes from getting into my chicken coop?
Answer: As mentioned above keeping the perimeter of the coop clear of debris and vegetation and making sure there are no cracks or holes for snakes to slither through will help deter snakes.
Additionally using a snake repellent around the coop may help.
What are some common snake repellents?
Answer: Some common snake repellents contain naphthalene or sulfur.
You can also use a homemade repellent made with essential oils such as eucalyptus lemon or peppermint.
How often do I need to reapply snake repellent?
Answer: This will depend on the product you are using.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Will a snake repellent also keep other animals out of my chicken coop?
Answer: No a snake repellent will not keep other animals out of your chicken coop.
What if I have a snake in my chicken coop and I can’t catch it?
Answer: If you are unable to catch the snake you may need to call a professional to remove it for you.
I found a snake in my chicken coop but I don’t know what kind it is.
Is it safe to handle it?
Answer: No it is not safe to handle a snake if you don’t know what kind it is as some snakes are venomous.
If you must remove the snake yourself use gloves and a hook to place it into a bag or container.
What are some of the signs that a snake is venomous?
Answer: Some signs that a snake is venomous include a triangular or arrow-shaped head vertical pupils and heat-sensing pits on the face.
How do I know if a snake bite is venomous?
Answer: A venomous snake bite will usually be painful and may cause swelling bruising and blistering at the site of the bite.
Venomous snake bites may also cause nausea vomiting and dizziness.
What should I do if I am bitten by a venomous snake?
Answer: If you are bitten by a venomous snake it is important to seek medical attention immediately as venomous snake bites can be life-threatening.
What should I do if I see a snake in my chicken coop?
Answer: If you see a snake in your chicken coop the best thing to do is to carefully trap it and then release it into the wild away from your chicken coop.
