Snakes and Chickens?

[moosey80203]

I'm learning all I can about chickens and building a
coop. I'm wondering if I might have a problem. We're on an open prairie and it seems we have several large snakes, including rattlesnakes. Am I going to be able to raise chickens? Thanks for your help.

 

[Joshischicken]

You will be able to raise them as long as your coup is sealed tightly and no snakes can get in if your going to let your chickens free roam i would strongly suggest getting a few Guinea Hens there loud but they will Alert you to any snakes birds rodents Ect. that might harm your flock and then you could put them back plus there great for Bug Control!

 

[allen wranch]

Snakes primarily go after eggs and chicks. Occasionally they will try an adolescent or banty, dependeping on size.

Keep wood and rock piles away from your coops and raise it high enough that rodents can't burrow under and live there. They will attract the snakes. If you already have rodents, the snakes are good at controling them and will probably leave your eggs and birds alone.

As Josh said, make sure your coop is tightly sealed. A snake can get through a very small space, including chicken wire.