Eggs missing...

[wvchics]

Do you have to use wooden eggs if the other hens are already laying there or did I misunderstand. I thought it was just some of the chickens laying outside.

 

[rebrascora]

I've had problems with crows carrying my eggs off when I've just collected them and put them down for a moment to fill a feeder up or the like. Literally turned by back for a moment and they had one away. I've also had problems with rats but usually they move them and then break them open and eat them. Of course, once the eggs are broken open, the hens can and will eat them, shells and all, so it could be rats and the hens cleaning up after them, but if you have seen a crow do it, then that will almost certainly be the culprit for all of them.

 

[kaumlauf]

Some people use bird netting around their runs. The snakes usually get tangled in it stopping them before they get to the chickens and their eggs. Hope this helps

The chickens and ducks forage together in a 1/2 acre pasture, so netting won't work, but thanks for the idea. They are fenced in. and it's electrified too.

 

[kaumlauf]

using fake eggs in your nest boxes will help them figure out where you want them to lay their eggs.

That's why I was leaving a couple of eggs in their nest area...but those are all gone. I have discovered a family of skunks living under the woodshed inside their 1/2 acre pen. We trapped one the other night, and are on the hunt for the rest. How they got in I don't know- it is 4 ' high and electrified. The openings in the wire fence are 2x4, so I think one squeeezed through and gave birth. WE also have chicken wire 1 foot high across the entire bottom. Little stinker got in anyway. I hate to kill them- but not sure what else to do...it's illegal to trap and release here.

 

[wvchics]

Have you tried contacting the local game warden. Maybe they would be allowed to relocate them for you. Or know of a nearby reserve that could take them. I don't like killing wild animals either. Finding them a new home is much better for everyone when it's possible.

 

[kaumlauf]

Um, that's a good idea, but I'm not going to handle a skunk.

 

[wvchics]

I don't blame you lol they may come trap it themselves idk, but it's worth a shot