How to Safeguard Your Chickens from Pesky Possums: Tried and Tested Methods

Possums are nocturnal marsupials native to North and South America. These adaptable creatures are omnivorous, consuming a diverse diet that includes fruits, vegetables, insects, small animals, and even human refuse. Their scavenging behavior often leads them to explore trash cans and compost bins in search of sustenance.

Possums are skilled climbers, capable of scaling various structures, including chicken coops, to access food sources. Generally non-aggressive, possums typically only become defensive when threatened. They are famous for their unique defense mechanism of feigning death, which has given rise to the phrase “playing possum.” This behavior involves the animal becoming limp and unresponsive, sometimes for extended periods.

Possums demonstrate remarkable adaptability, thriving in both urban and rural environments. Their reproductive capabilities are notable, with females producing multiple large litters annually. This rapid reproduction rate contributes to their widespread presence across various habitats.

For those keeping chickens, understanding possum behavior is essential for effective coop protection. Knowledge of their habits and tendencies allows for the implementation of appropriate security measures to safeguard poultry from potential possum intrusions.

Key Takeaways

• Possums are nocturnal and are attracted to chicken coops for food and shelter.
• Secure the chicken coop with strong wire mesh and lockable doors to prevent possums from entering.
• Use natural deterrents such as predator urine or strong-smelling plants to keep possums away from the coop.
• Install motion-activated lights or alarms to scare possums away when they approach the coop.
• Remove potential food sources such as fallen fruits or grains to discourage possums from lingering near the coop.
• Create barriers such as fences or netting to prevent possums from accessing the coop.
• Seek professional help if possum infestation becomes unmanageable.

Securing the Chicken Coop

Inspect and Repair the Coop

Start by inspecting the coop for any potential entry points, such as holes, gaps, or loose boards. Make sure to repair any damage and reinforce weak spots to prevent possums from gaining access.

Secure Windows, Vents, and Doors

Use heavy-duty wire mesh to cover windows and vents, as possums can easily squeeze through small openings. It’s also important to secure the doors with locks or latches to prevent possums from prying them open.

Install an Apron Fence and Roof

Another effective way to secure the chicken coop is by installing an apron fence around the perimeter. An apron fence is a wire mesh that extends outward from the base of the coop, creating a barrier that prevents possums from digging underneath. Make sure the apron fence extends at least 12 inches outward and is buried at least 6 inches deep to effectively deter possums. Additionally, consider adding a roof to the chicken run to prevent possums from climbing over the top and gaining access to the coop.

Summary

Securing the chicken coop is crucial in keeping possums away from your chickens. Inspect the coop for any potential entry points and reinforce weak spots. Use heavy-duty wire mesh to cover windows and vents, and install an apron fence around the perimeter to prevent possums from digging underneath.

Using Natural Deterrents

Using natural deterrents can be an effective way to keep possums away from your chicken coop. One natural deterrent is the use of predator urine, such as fox or coyote urine, around the perimeter of the coop. The scent of predator urine can help deter possums from approaching the area, as they will perceive it as a potential threat.

You can also use strong-smelling plants, such as garlic or lavender, around the coop to repel possums. Another natural deterrent is the use of motion-activated sprinklers. These devices release a sudden burst of water when they detect motion, which can startle and deter possums from approaching the coop.

Additionally, consider planting thorny bushes or shrubs around the perimeter of the coop to create a natural barrier that possums will be reluctant to cross. Using natural deterrents such as predator urine, strong-smelling plants, motion-activated sprinklers, and thorny bushes can help keep possums away from your chicken coop. These natural methods can be effective in deterring possums without causing them any harm.

Installing Motion-Activated Lights or Alarms

Installing motion-activated lights or alarms can be an effective way to deter possums from approaching your chicken coop. Possums are nocturnal creatures and are sensitive to light and sound, so installing motion-activated lights or alarms can startle them and discourage them from coming near the coop. Place the lights or alarms in strategic locations around the coop, such as near entry points or areas where possum activity has been observed.

Motion-activated lights or alarms can also alert you to any possum activity around the coop, allowing you to take immediate action to scare them away. Additionally, consider using solar-powered lights or alarms to save on energy costs and ensure that they remain operational even during power outages. Installing motion-activated lights or alarms around your chicken coop can startle possums and discourage them from approaching the area.

These devices can also alert you to any possum activity, allowing you to take immediate action to scare them away.

Removing Potential Food Sources

Possums are attracted to areas with readily available food sources, so removing potential food sources can help deter them from coming near your chicken coop. Make sure to secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids and avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outside, as these can attract possums. Additionally, clean up any fallen fruits or vegetables in your yard and avoid overfeeding pets outside.

It’s also important to keep the area around the chicken coop clean and free of debris, as clutter can provide hiding spots for possums. Regularly clean up any spilled feed or bedding around the coop and remove any piles of wood or brush that could provide shelter for possums. By removing potential food sources and keeping the area clean, you can make your property less attractive to possums.

Removing potential food sources such as unsecured trash cans, pet food, fallen fruits or vegetables, and clutter around the chicken coop can help deter possums from approaching the area. By making your property less attractive to possums, you can reduce the likelihood of them causing any harm to your chickens.

Creating Barriers

Effective Fencing

One effective barrier is a fence with a smooth top that prevents possums from climbing over it. Make sure the fence is at least 4 feet tall and extends underground to prevent possums from digging underneath.

Hardware Cloth Skirt

Another effective barrier is a hardware cloth skirt that extends outward from the base of the fence. This skirt should be buried at least 12 inches deep and extend outward at least 12 inches to prevent possums from digging underneath. Additionally, consider adding a hot wire at the top of the fence to further deter possums from climbing over.

Combining Barriers for Maximum Protection

Creating physical barriers such as fences with smooth tops, hardware cloth skirts, and hot wires can help prevent possums from gaining access to your property and chicken coop. By creating these barriers, you can effectively deter possums from causing any harm to your chickens.

Seeking Professional Help

If you have tried various methods to keep possums away from your chicken coop but have been unsuccessful, it may be time to seek professional help. A wildlife removal expert can assess your property and recommend effective solutions for keeping possums at bay. They may also be able to trap and relocate any persistent possums that are causing problems on your property.

Additionally, consider contacting your local animal control agency for assistance with removing possums from your property. They may have resources and expertise in dealing with wildlife issues and can provide guidance on how to effectively manage possum activity around your chicken coop. Seeking professional help from a wildlife removal expert or animal control agency can provide you with the expertise and resources needed to effectively manage possum activity around your property.

If you have tried various methods without success, professional help may be necessary to keep your chickens safe from possums. In conclusion, understanding possum behavior is crucial in preventing them from causing harm to your chickens. Securing the chicken coop, using natural deterrents, installing motion-activated lights or alarms, removing potential food sources, creating barriers, and seeking professional help are all effective strategies for keeping possums away from your property.

By implementing these strategies, you can create a safe and secure environment for your chickens while effectively managing possum activity on your property.

If you’re looking for ways to keep possums away from your chickens, you may also be interested in learning about how to build an A-frame chicken coop. This article from Poultry Wizard provides valuable information on creating a secure and comfortable living space for your chickens, which can help prevent unwanted visitors like possums from accessing your flock. Check it out here.

FAQs

What are possums and why are they a threat to chickens?

Possums are nocturnal marsupials that are known to prey on chickens and their eggs. They can pose a threat to the safety and well-being of chickens in a backyard or farm setting.

What are some effective ways to keep possums away from chickens?

Some effective ways to keep possums away from chickens include securing the chicken coop with strong wire mesh, installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers, using predator deterrents such as predator urine or noise devices, and keeping the surrounding area clean and free of food sources.

Are there any natural deterrents that can be used to keep possums away from chickens?

Yes, natural deterrents such as planting strong-smelling herbs like lavender or mint, using citrus peels or essential oils, and keeping a guard dog or other natural predators can help keep possums away from chickens.

What should I do if I suspect possums are targeting my chickens?

If you suspect possums are targeting your chickens, it’s important to take immediate action to secure the chicken coop, remove any potential food sources, and consider using deterrents or traps to safely remove the possums from the area.

Are there any legal considerations when dealing with possums?

In some areas, possums may be protected by wildlife conservation laws, so it’s important to check local regulations and seek advice from wildlife authorities before taking any action to remove or deter possums from your property.