Rats with chickens and ducks

[Saker1]

Hi there guys
I'm a new member, so I'm sorry if I've done something wrong. Anyway, does anyone know if rats can be harmful to chickens or ducks, we are going to start a new flock after all of ours were eaten by a fox, and there are rats in the area. Can a rat hurt a full grown chicken or not, and what are the problems caused by rats? Thanks.

 

[sunflour]

Welcome, glad you have joined us.

Sorry about your past loss and wish you better luck with the next flock.

Rats are a problem, here's a link to a predator list that includes the problems with rats/mice:

post #1


Baby chicks and brooding hens are the easiest targets. But, there are a few reports of rats killing full grown chickens and ducks.

They also can cause damage to the coop and provide a means for other predators to enter.

 

[Free Spirit]

Hello and welcome to BYC

.

To help answer your question I've supplied a link to the BYC Learning Centers article on rats.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/rat-chicken-pests-how-to-protect-your-chickens-from-rats

Here are a couple of recent threads on the subject.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1059079/rodents-in-the-duckpen
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1064114/rats-in-chicken-pen

If you would like to learn more about other predators here is a list with info on selected topics
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/chicken-predators-pests-how-to-protect-treat-your-flock

 

[N F C]

It looks like you've received your answer so I'll just say hello, it's nice to have you here!

 

[Saker1]

Thanks for your help guys!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

Rats also spread disease which could affect your health as well. Do you know anyone with Jack Russell Terriers? They are great on rats. Just lock up your chickens and let the dogs at them.

 

[trailrider330]

Welcome to the BYC flock! We are glad you joined us!