06/10/2021
Chickens, ducks, and other poultry have lots of predators! Not all of these predators are wild animals. Domestic dogs are a significant predator, and like a fox (who gains access inside your run and coop, will take out your entire flock for the fun of it. Raccoons are another animal who kills for fun, and take pleasure in viciously decapitating your birds, one by one.
It is YOUR responsibility to protect your flock. It is NOT the "cycle of life"!!! In order to prevent attacks, you must be proactive and install measures to protect them BEFORE they are killed, not after.
Also, from a biosecurity standpoint, keep the following in mind:
**Many domestic and wild predators of poultry carry pathogens which can be very harmful to your birds. Raccoons (and frequently dogs) carry a roundworm in their f***s which can kill your birds.
**Being stalked and seeing your friends attacked is also extremely stressful for your flock, which can lower their immune system and make them more susceptible to illness.
Here is a handy chart that shows the types of predators to watch out for, the number of birds they typically kill/dismember, and how they gain access to your chicken run and coop. For further information on how to properly predator proof your run and coop, please refer to this infographic - http://www.poultrydvm.com/featured-infographic/tips-for-protecting-poultry-from-predators.