threats to my chickens

[redsoxrule]

I'm new to chickens and need any info. on predators. For example where are black snakes found (regions)

 

[fowlweatherfriends]

Hi, Check out the predators and pests section here on BYC. You can also use the search feature above and type in black snakes. What area are you in?

Welcome

 

[redsoxrule]

I live in the northeast (Mass)

 

[Southern28Chick]

I tried look on the web for you but I think as far as snakes go it may depend on how rural your area is. I have caught 2 black snakes in 2 days!!! That's crazy!!! I'm in the country but my area is growing so fast due to people moving here daily and subdivisions are runnin the snakes from their habitats. Trying looking on the internet and see what snakes or other animals you have in your area.

 

[SpottedCrow]

http://www.umass.edu/nrec/snake_pit/index.html
This is a list of every one we have up here. that doesn't mean the someone couldn't dump their boa or ananconda in the local park or woodlands...
I found a large (4 foot) section of what might've been attached to one of the above in Pond Meadow Park...I think a Snapper had been to work on it. blech
Nice to see another Baystater. Welcome!

 

[Standard Hen]

I just came across this, thanks SpottedCrow,,,I hate them all...lol I was telling someone the other day that there were Rattlers in New England and they did not believe me. I did not know about the Copperheads though.
Thanks again.

 

[SpottedCrow]

You're welcome...Rattlesnakes are more likely to slither away than want to bite you. They'd rather save their venom for their food.

 

[Davaroo]

Id also concern myself with other preds. Snakes are something to be mindful of but in MA, you are likely to find others more worrisome: foxes, some sort of weasel(skunks), owls, hawks, racoons, rats ... and that is just the natural ones. Lets not forget Man's Best Friend, who happens to be one of the worst chicken preds as well as any wild cats that may be lurking.