How to Get Rid of a Raccoon Eating Your Chickens

Having a raccoon eating your chickens can be a real problem for any chicken owner. Raccoons are incredibly smart and resourceful animals, and they can quickly learn how to get into your chicken coop and steal your eggs and chickens. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to get rid of a raccoon eating your chickens and keep them away for good.

Preventing Raccoons from Getting into Your Coop

The best way to get rid of a raccoon eating your chickens is to prevent them from getting into your coop in the first place. Here are some tips to help you keep raccoons out of your chicken coop:

• Secure the Coop: Make sure your chicken coop is secure and that all doors and windows are closed and locked. You should also check the perimeter of your coop for any gaps or holes that a raccoon could use to get in.
• Install a Fence: Installing a fence around your chicken coop can help keep raccoons out. Make sure the fence is at least 6 feet tall and that it is buried at least 6 inches deep into the ground.
• Remove Attractants: Raccoons are attracted to food, so make sure to remove any food sources from around your coop. This includes pet food, bird feeders, and compost piles.
• Use Repellents: There are several types of repellents available that can help keep raccoons away from your coop. These include ultrasonic devices, motion-activated sprinklers, and ammonia-soaked rags.

Trapping and Relocating Raccoons

If you already have a raccoon in your chicken coop, the best way to get rid of it is to trap it and relocate it. You can purchase a live trap from your local hardware store or online. Make sure to check your local laws and regulations before trapping and relocating a raccoon.

Once you have trapped the raccoon, you can release it in a wooded area far away from your coop. Make sure to wear gloves when handling the trap and the raccoon to avoid any potential diseases.

Pro Tip

Make sure to clean up any mess the raccoon has made in your coop. Raccoons can carry diseases, so it is important to clean up any droppings or debris they have left behind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep raccoons away from my chickens?

The best way to keep raccoons away from your chickens is to make sure your coop is secure and that all doors and windows are closed and locked. You should also install a fence around your coop and remove any food sources from around your coop. You can also use repellents such as ultrasonic devices, motion-activated sprinklers, and ammonia-soaked rags.

What should I do if I find a raccoon in my chicken coop?

If you find a raccoon in your chicken coop, the best thing to do is to trap it and relocate it. You can purchase a live trap from your local hardware store or online. Make sure to check your local laws and regulations before trapping and relocating a raccoon. Once you have trapped the raccoon, you can release it in a wooded area far away from your coop.