Potent PREDATORS

Take precautions, as these 15 marauders can wipe out an entire flock.

-  MOIRA K. McGHEE

Discovering a predator has targeted your flock is one of the most distressing things a backyard chicken-keeper can face. A single predator can cause complete chaos, wiping out numerous birds in a single assault. Danger can come from above, below and anywhere in between.

It also comes in many shapes and sizes. An effective defense begins with understanding the enemy.

Predators are a constant threat, so maintaining the safety of your flock is a daily concern. Understanding your potential predators and how to protect your chickens from each one is essential. Whether they crawl, dig, slither or swoop, knowing how to identify and deter various predators can mean the difference between a thriving flock and a tragic loss.

The following 15 animals are known to wreak havoc in a chicken coop. Learn more about their habits, the signs they leave behind after attacking and practical measures to safeguard your birds.

RACCOONS

REGION: found across the United States Raccoons are easily recognized by their masked faces and ringed tails. They're also notorious for their dexterity and intelligence, making them one of the formidable predators of chickens.

Using their nimble paws, these nocturnal mammals can manipulate simple locks, opening latches and undoing hooks to get inside a coop. They can even tear apart wire mesh or remove roof shingles to reach their prey.

If you suspect a raccoon, look for tracks with front paw prints resembling tiny human hands near your coop.

Signs of their presence include precisely opened eggs, scattered feathers near the coop and partially eaten bodies because they often only eat part of the chicken.

Raccoons are motivated by easy food sources and may repeatedly attack coops if they find them accessible.

Their assaults can be especially brutal, as they tend to kill or maim multiple chickens in one visit.