Any ideas for keeping rat snakes away from a chicken coup?

[elcall36]

Recently we found a rat snake in one of our nesting boxes. Anyone have any suggestions for keeping them out?

 

[stevodod]

Recently we found a rat snake in one of our nesting boxes. Anyone have any suggestions for keeping them out?

1st question: What kind of rat snake?
2nd question: Why?

I have a 3' yellow rat that takes care of any stray mice near the coop. Caught and held him 5 times. Birds don't like him, but her serves a useful purpose!

 

[chfite]

We have black snakes, and probably others unseen. They keep the chipmunks and rabbits under control.

Chris

 

[elcall36]

I want to keep them out because they eat the eggs in the coop

 

[stevodod]

I want to keep them out because they eat the eggs in the coop

Never would have believed it, then found this....

Walk him a LONG ways away. They one I found in my coop I took him 50 yards, 100 yards, 250 yards, and 1/4 mile away....and he was always back!

 

[StupidBird]

I rehomed my egg eating rat snakes to person who wanted them at her stable to keep rodents away. They are quite happy there.

 

[stevodod]

I rehomed my egg eating rat snakes to person who wanted them at her stable to keep rodents away. They are quite happy there.

Now THAT is a responsible and ethical (plus smart!) use of resources!