How Do You Protect Chickens From Snakes?

“I recently moved to a rural property and started keeping chickens, but I’m worried about snakes getting into the coop. What are the best ways to protect my flock from these predators? I’ve heard some horror stories and want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to keep my chickens safe.” Thanks, Walter, Auckland, New Zealand.

How to Protect Chickens from Snakes: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey Walter! It’s great to hear you’ve started keeping chickens in Auckland. Snakes can indeed be a concern for chicken owners, even in New Zealand where you don’t have many native snake species. However, introduced species like the Australian brown tree snake can pose a threat. Let’s explore some effective strategies to keep your feathered friends safe from slithering predators.

Understanding the Threat

Before we dive into protection methods, it’s crucial to understand why snakes are attracted to chicken coops. Snakes primarily come for two reasons:

• To eat the chickens or their eggs
• To hunt rodents that are attracted to chicken feed

By addressing these factors, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of snake encounters.

Secure the Coop

The first line of defense is to make your coop as snake-proof as possible. Here are some key steps:

1. Use small-gauge wire mesh: Cover all openings with 1/4 inch hardware cloth. This includes windows, vents, and any gaps in the coop structure.
2. Bury the mesh: Extend the wire mesh at least 6 inches into the ground around the coop’s perimeter to prevent snakes from burrowing underneath.
3. Seal all gaps: Check for and seal any holes or cracks larger than 1/4 inch in the coop’s walls, floor, and roof.
4. Elevated coop: If possible, raise your coop off the ground. This makes it harder for snakes to access and provides less cover for them.

Walter, these measures will go a long way in keeping your Auckland chickens safe from potential snake intruders.

Maintain a Clean Environment

A clean coop and surrounding area are less attractive to snakes and their prey. Here’s what you should do:

• Regular cleaning: Clean the coop at least weekly, removing droppings and old bedding.
• Proper feed storage: Store chicken feed in sealed, rodent-proof containers to avoid attracting mice and rats.
• Remove hiding spots: Keep the area around the coop free from debris, tall grass, and brush where snakes might hide.
• Collect eggs frequently: Gather eggs daily to remove this potential food source for snakes.

Natural Deterrents

While not foolproof, certain natural deterrents can help discourage snakes:

• Plants: Grow snake-repelling plants around the coop, such as lemongrass, garlic, or marigolds.
• Essential oils: Use snake-repelling essential oils like cinnamon, clove, or cedarwood around the coop perimeter. Reapply after rain.
• Predator urine: Sprinkle predator urine (like fox or coyote) around the coop area. This can be purchased from garden centers or online.

Remember, Walter, while these natural methods can help, they shouldn’t be relied upon as your primary defense against snakes.

Introduce Guardian Animals

Certain animals can help protect your chickens from snakes:

• Guinea fowl: These birds are excellent at spotting and alerting to potential predators, including snakes.
• Dogs: Some breeds, like terriers, can be trained to patrol the area and deter snakes. However, ensure the dog is also trained not to harm the chickens.
• Cats: While not typically thought of as snake deterrents, cats can help control the rodent population, indirectly reducing snake attraction.

Install Snake-Proof Fencing

For added protection, consider installing snake-proof fencing around your chicken area:

1. Use fine mesh or solid material that snakes can’t pass through.
2. Ensure the fence is at least 3 feet high.
3. Bury the bottom of the fence 6-12 inches deep and angle it outward to prevent burrowing.
4. Install a rolled top on the fence to prevent snakes from climbing over.

This method can be particularly effective in your Auckland property, Walter, as it creates a physical barrier between your chickens and potential snake habitats.

Regular Inspections

Performing regular inspections is crucial for maintaining a snake-free environment:

• Check the coop and run daily for signs of snake activity or entry points.
• Look for shed snake skins, which indicate recent snake presence.
• Inspect eggs for small puncture marks, which could suggest snake predation.
• Monitor your chickens’ behavior – they may become agitated if a snake is nearby.

Humane Snake Removal

If you do encounter a snake, it’s important to handle the situation safely and humanely:

1. Keep calm and avoid sudden movements.
2. Do not attempt to handle the snake yourself, especially if you’re unsure of the species.
3. Contact local wildlife services or a professional snake catcher for safe removal.
4. In New Zealand, you can contact the Department of Conservation for guidance on dealing with introduced snake species.

Educate Yourself on Local Snake Species

While New Zealand doesn’t have many native snakes, it’s still important to educate yourself about potential introduced species:

• Learn to identify common snake species in your area.
• Understand their behavior and habits.
• Know which species are venomous and how to respond in case of a bite.

This knowledge will help you better protect your chickens and respond appropriately if you do encounter a snake, Walter.

Create a Snake-Free Zone

To further discourage snakes from entering your property:

• Remove potential food sources like rodents and insects.
• Eliminate water sources such as leaky pipes or standing water.
• Keep your lawn mowed and remove brush piles or debris where snakes might hide.
• Consider using snake repellent products around the perimeter of your property.

Emergency Preparedness

Even with the best precautions, it’s wise to be prepared for emergencies:

1. Keep a snake bite kit on hand, even though venomous snakes are rare in New Zealand.
2. Have the contact information for local wildlife services and veterinarians readily available.
3. Create an emergency plan for quickly and safely evacuating your chickens if necessary.

Final Thoughts…

Walter, protecting your chickens from snakes involves a multi-faceted approach. The key takeaways are to secure your coop, maintain a clean environment, use deterrents, and stay vigilant. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to snake encounters. By implementing these strategies, you’ll create a safer environment for your feathered friends in Auckland. Thank you for reaching out with this important question. Your dedication to your chickens’ safety is commendable, and I’m confident that with these measures in place, you’ll be able to enjoy your backyard flock with peace of mind. Keep up the great work, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions about chicken keeping!