Raccoon attack last week, hens don't want to go back in coop at night

[PeachygirlGA]

Lost 4 hens last week to a nasty raccoon. The attacks were every night until we finally found where they were coming in and secured the coop. After a few days I finally let them out to free range today and had a hard time getting them back in. How long until they forget what happened???

 

[TARDIS37379]

Lost 4 hens last week to a nasty raccoon. The attacks were every night until we finally found where they were coming in and secured the coop. After a few days I finally let them out to free range today and had a hard time getting them back in. How long until they forget what happened???

IMHO, usually a few days and they’ll go back to a normal routine. Raccoons will return, I’ve added electric fencing around the perimeter fence and it helps with all ground based predators.

 

[PeachygirlGA]

IMHO, usually a few days and they’ll go back to a normal routine. Raccoons will return, I’ve added electric fencing around the perimeter fence and it helps with all ground based predators.

Yes, that's what I thought too but 2 hens refused and I had to catch them with a fishing net, in the rain. Lol! And it has been 5 days since the last attack. I guess I will keep them in a few more days and see. This particular raccoon will not return, but I know there may be more. Had not thought of electric fencing. Thanks for the tip!

 

[HomesteaderWife]

Poor babies, I am so sorry for this attack on your flock. Definitely consider researching on BYC some predator-proofing and prevention steps, including fencing. If you do consider the trapping/dispatch method, I encourage you to learn about tanning and put the harvested animal to good use.