What is the best way they to get rid of raccoons?

[Merylyn]

Raccoons and many other predators have been taking my chickens one by one , what is the best way to get rid of them and should I put them down or relocate them? Thanks!

 

[neo71665]

First check local laws, you might have to get a permit or it might be illegal to relocate them.

I trap and/or dispatch all predators.

 

[Molpet]

I use dog proof traps and dispatch
First time in 5 years I have had losses...Lost 5 poults this spring and so far I have gotten 18 raccoons... shot 2 not in traps, 4 in a box trap and the rest were too smart for it. Got Duke's dog proof and got the rest.

 

[esme13]

We use the traps and dispatch.. other wise they could come back and some laws don’t allow for relocation..

 

[Merylyn]

Ok thanks!

 

[IdyllwildAcres]

I would put my efforts into securing the coop and run, I live in the forest and if I trapped the coons another would just take its place. You will never get them all.

 

[Merylyn]

I would put my efforts into securing the coop and run, I live in the forest and if I trapped the coons another would just take its place. You will never get them all.

Yeh I'm making the coop and run more secure I just wanna take all the precautions I can, thanks!

 

[reddogmaster2]

Yeh I'm making the coop and run more secure I just wanna take all the precautions I can, thanks!

If you wanted to post some pics that might help with some suggestions on predator proofing your setup.

Some suggestions;

Hardware Cloth instead of basic "chicken wire"
Barriers for any digging or burrowing predators
Lighting
Trained Dogs to help with perimeter checks
Predator Proof locks on doors etc

I don't use many traps, but my trusty single shot .410 is always nearby!

 

[Howard E]

I would put my efforts into securing the coop and run, I live in the forest and if I trapped the coons another would just take its place. You will never get them all.

To elaborate.......if coons or any other varmints are taking your birds at night, that means your housing has holes in it that allows them in.

Can you share photos or your setup? Sometimes it helps to have a different set of eyes look at it to offer advice.

 

[aart]

should I put them down or relocate them?

Put them down...Never relocate.