coral snake

[nctoni]

So I just saw what I think was a Coral snake out beside my chicken coop. By the time I put my dogs that I had on leashes inside it was out of sight.
Will this type of snake hurt, kill my chickens? Will it steal eggs?
I lost a chicken that appeared healthy to me a couple of weeks ago. I didn't know what it died from. No missing parts, no blood, acting fine the day before.
i will dispatch this snake if I get a chance. I just want to know if they are predators to chickens.
While I was searching this topic I saw someone comment on placing eggs in a minnow trap inside the coop. Snake gets in and has a hard time getting out. Does that seem reasonable?
Thanks for your comments in advance

 

[rjohns39]

So I just saw what I think was a Coral snake out beside my chicken coop. By the time I put my dogs that I had on leashes inside it was out of sight.
Will this type of snake hurt, kill my chickens? Will it steal eggs?
I lost a chicken that appeared healthy to me a couple of weeks ago. I didn't know what it died from. No missing parts, no blood, acting fine the day before.
i will dispatch this snake if I get a chance. I just want to know if they are predators to chickens.
While I was searching this topic I saw someone comment on placing eggs in a minnow trap inside the coop. Snake gets in and has a hard time getting out. Does that seem reasonable?
Thanks for your comments in advance

I don't know if it would go after a chicken but if startled it could be an issue. Here's a pretty good read on them http://www.snake-removal.com/coral.html To include folks who get rid of them.

 

[Zoomie]

Coral snakes are not likely interested in your chickens or eggs. They actually prey on other reptiles including snakes. Make sure it really is a coral snake, though - a lot of times people are fooled. I think @rjohns39 has a good link for you there.