Protect Backyard Chickens from Skunks

Next up in our series on backyard chicken predators is the noxious skunk. While they might not be the first predatory threat to your flock that comes to mind, nevertheless, if given the chance, a skunk will eat eggs, kill chicks and even occasionally attack full grown poultry. skunk6

Obviously, the easiest way to tell if a skunk is around your coop is to follow your nose. If you notice persistent skunk essence over an extended period of time, chances are you have a skunk in residence. But, if you are still not sure, you can also look for tracks. The tracks can be difficult to distinguish from those of a raccoon but if you are a gifted tracker, you can easily spot the difference. spskunkIf you really want to be thorough, an examination of skunk scat will usually reveal lots of insect parts. If your coop has been subject to attack by a skunk, you would expect to find eggs opened up on one end and the contents consumed or if an actual bird were attacked the neck would be opened up and perhaps the head eaten.

http://www.almanac.com/pest/skunks http://www.raising-chickens.org/chicken-predators.html

Once you have definitely identified the threat, it is time to take action. Skunks will not usually break through coop confines like some other aggressive predators, but if given an opening, they will take it. So, it is essential to make sure fencing and coop confines are intact and also that any areas where skunks could dig underneath are properly sealed. Once the coop is secure, then it is time to employ a deterrent. Enter fox urine. What? Fox Urine? How? It might not be the first thing you think of but, a fox is one of the most common skunk predators. Skunks fear foxes, they sense a fox is present because of the urine, and they leave your chickens, chicks and eggs alone – it is as simple as that.

Identify, shore up fencing and walls, set up a pee-rimeter with 100% fox urine, and rest easy.

Until I find more words. . .The PeeMan

How to “OutFox” Destructive Skunks

I don’t know about in other places, but around here the distinct aroma of skunk spray is a sure sign that Spring is on its way. Unfortunately, here in Maine, Old Man Winter has decided he is not done with us yet, so the skunks have gone back to hiding for a while. But, surely they are out and about in other places in the world. So, we know that the scent of their spray is noxious, but what other problems do skunks cause?

“Shallow holes in the ground, surrounded by a ring of loosened soil”

“Skunks are often the cause of these clues. The soil disruption happens overnight because skunks are nocturnal feeders. The hole is approximately the size of a skunk nose. The skunk presses its nose to the soil and digs with its long, front claws. Skunky knows that just below the surface is a protein-rich treat, just waiting to be harvested. There can be so many holes that they coalesce into an area the looks like it has been tilled.” http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/whos_that_digging_in_my_yard_skunks_raccoons_or_moles

Well, here at predatorpee.com, we approach a lot of our problem pests using the predator-prey principle. It is a concept that makes lots of sense and has proven to be effective. So, if we have a skunk(the prey), we need to figure out the predator. A little research and the answer presents:  “While the exact number of species that prey on skunks is unknown, red foxescougarscoyotes and domestic dogs are among them.” So, best way to prevent skunk damage . . .”Outfox” them with 100% FoxPee. But, you don’t have to take my word for it, customers have been using it with success for years, just read below:

“I have used your products (for skunks) for at least the past 6 years…and they work!”

Wally – Salem, OR

“This stuff works GREAT at keeping skunks away from our property and pets.”

Brian – Peabody, MA

“I live in San Diego, Cal. and we have so many skunks this year. I’ve called all over town asking how to get rid of them. Everyone said to get a trap and take them to the country to release them. I’m in my 70’s and am not about to trap a skunk! My son in Seattle, Wash. sent me some Fox urine. He said everyone up there uses it but down here they laughed at me. However, it has worked for 3 weeks, but now they’re back. Help! How can I order more ?”

E. H

To purchase 100% FoxPee click here. For application instructions, click here.

Enjoy your day, especially if Spring(and skunks)have arrived!

Until I find more words . . .The PeeMan

Ask the PeeMan: California Skunks

Hi there, we live just outside of San Diego, California in a little town.  We used to smell skunks once in a while but it’s getting very bad lately.  I came across your website and I’m a little confused which predator pee is best for skunks – would you recommend the fox pee granules?   We have some plants clustered together and it seems like they like to go in there, could we just spread the granules in that area and call it good?   Although it says the granules are recommended for burrowing creatures, should they work for skunks too.  How often do you think we would need to reapply?  Anyway, any guidance would be appreciated.

Thanks!
Shelly

 

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Shelly,

Yes FoxPee Granules would work fine – skunks like to dig for grubs etc. Reapply after rain – which I understand is not so frequent in So California. Here is the link: