![]() ![]() They, along with otters, ferrets, martens, and others, are part of the Mustelid class of critters. WeaselĪ bit smaller than mink, but closely related, are weasels. Because of their smaller size, they can access the coop from small openings. They can be hard to spot, but look for small droppings. Entire flocks have been wiped out overnight, so if you see dead chickens (as in several) in or near the coop, you may have mink. They may not be as prominent a predator as others, but when they come around watch out! In the chicken coop, mink will kill the chickens but not eat them. Minkĭespite their smaller stature, they can be vicious predators. Fox generally attack more at night, but have been known to target free ranging chickens, especially if you live in rural areas. You will not likely see a lot of blood either, possibly just a few feathers on the ground. ![]() Like coyotes, they take the birds away from the immediate area to eat them elsewhere. Foxįox are crafty animals and are a bit more stealth than other predators. ![]() Coyotes are more likely to attack at night. Unlike other animals, they are after the entire bird, and will take it to an area away from the coop to eat it. If your chickens are missing from your coop, a coyote may have been the culprit. I’ve read they are primarily after the crop of the chickens. They usually attack at night and will (gulp) behead the chicken, leaving the body behind. These are listed at the top for a reason…It’s one of the most common predators for both rural and urban settings! They are cute with their bandit face and all, but can take a chicken out quickly with it’s sharp claws and teeth. Ok, let’s get at it! Free Chicken Coop Plans ( picture at 123RF) Common Chicken Predators Raccoon We only include them to help identify which predator is going after your flock. We apologize in advance for those who may be a bit squeamish about some of the gory details. But if you find a chicken without a limb, it could be a raccoon who reached through the chicken wire and tore off a leg. For example, if a chicken is missing it will more likely be a sign of a fox or coyote. Thankfully, there are ways to beef up your coop against them all!įor each predator, we’ll discuss what to look for if your chickens have been killed. We’ll not only look at 4 legged creatures but aerial predators as well. ![]()
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