A Family Guide To Keeping Chickens (39 page)

. . . as are jackdaws

Rats and Squirrels

Rats can attack sleeping or sitting hens but are more likely to take eggs (at which they are very adept) and kill chicks. Foxes eat rats and may be attracted by their presence.

Rats often move in during the winter when food is scarce. Make food and water as inaccessible to them as possible, being sure to clear everything away at night.

A pest controller told me that if you see a rat in daytime, you have got a problem. The senior rats feed at night but if there’s not enough to go round, the younger ones have to venture out in the daylight.

If you see a rat at any time, or simply spot evidence of their presence
(droppings, small holes or gnawing), it’s essential to act before they breed more rats. You can trap or poison them – make sure children and pets can’t access the poison, and also that your dog or cat doesn’t eat poisoned rats. Contact the local pest control officer for advice.

Rats carry diseases that can seriously affect humans. If you touch any areas where rats may have been, thoroughly wash your hands (if the skin is broken or if you are bitten by a rat, seek medical advice immediately). Wear gloves if you have to deal with dead rats and wash your hands afterwards.

Grey squirrels also like chicken eggs and may take chicks too. Full-grown hens will usually see off a squirrel but young birds or small bantams could possibly be attacked.

Rats will take chicks or eggs, and spread disease

Trapping Responsibly

It is illegal to inflict suffering on any animal so traps must be checked at least twice a day, and any creature captured should be disposed of humanely. Releasing an animal elsewhere can result in welfare issues and is illegal in the case of non-native species such as grey squirrels and mink.

Traps must be used responsibly – a mink trap

Domestic Cats and Dogs

Although cats don’t often pose a threat to full-size, adult chickens, they will take chicks and small birds may also be at risk.

Chickens can bring out the hunting instinct in even docile, well-behaved dogs so make introductions very cautiously. Some dogs happily take to chickens and may even protect them, but no dog should be trusted until you are completely sure. Dogs can often be trained to live in harmony with chickens but this may take some time and effort.

Be careful of neighbouring dogs too, and make sure your flock is protected if you live near a footpath.

Dogs can be trained to live in harmony with chickens

Humans

Chicken rustling is on the increase, especially if you have rare or interesting breeds. Equipment may also go missing if sheds are easily accessible. Don’t leave tools lying around to make it easy for thieves, and consider padlocking the chicken house.

Keeping Your Chickens Safe