Are skunks a problem around the coop?

[UK Chicken rancher]

We've already lost half our flock to a coyote so we're a little gun shy. Obviously we don't want a skunk hanging around anyway but are they a predator to chickens or eggs? Thanx for your imput!

 

[chicmom]

Yes, skunks are predators to both chickens and their eggs.

 

[boogiedog]

Skunks are pretty benign; they may go for eggs that are relatively accessible but unlikely that they would go for the birds.

I stand corrected! Sounds like folks have had instances with them taking birds. bummer.

 

[bobbi-j]

Yes - they will go for your birds, too. I had one take out most of my flock last year.

 

[jerseygirl1]

Lost most of my quail to them.......................

 

[carrlr]

Don't know if they're officially carnivors, but they will eat chickens and eggs.

 

[Mahonri]

I've seen them eat eggs and chickens.

little stinkers....

 

[woodmort]

Skunks are the same family(Mustelidae) as weasels, badgers, wolverines, mink and otters--they will eat what they can get and if that's birds and eggs they can be a predator.

 

[mmaddie's mom]

My 92 year old mom tells a story about a fuss in the hen house and my Gramma going to check it out... only to have a skunk run out between her legs... still makes me laugh.

Oh the answer to your question (as others have attested too) is "yes".

 

[mississippifarmboy]

Yes, and like a weasel they will kill just to be killing if they get in the chicken house. We had one do just that years ago.