Raccoons are clever, nocturnal creatures known for their resourcefulness, but when it comes to backyard chickens, they can pose a serious threat. If you’re raising chickens, understanding raccoon behavior and taking steps to protect your flock is essential.

How Raccoons Attack
Raccoons are intelligent and dexterous, capable of opening latches, pulling apart weak fencing, and reaching through small gaps. Their attacks are often brutal, as they can kill multiple birds in a single raid. Common signs of a raccoon attack include:
- Dead chickens with heads or crops eaten—raccoons often target specific parts.
How to Protect Your Chickens from Raccoons
- Reinforce Your Run
- Cover the top of your chicken run to prevent raccoons from climbing in.
- Bury fencing at least 12 inches underground to stop raccoons from digging underneath.
- Install Nighttime Protections
- Eliminate Attractants
- Store chicken feed in raccoon-proof containers.
- Clean up food scraps and keep trash cans secured.
Other Predators to Watch Out For
While raccoons are a significant threat, they’re not the only predators that target chickens. Foxes, hawks, and weasels are also common culprits. Identifying your area’s predators will help you implement effective solutions.
Final Thoughts
Taking these steps not only ensures the safety of your birds but also gives you peace of mind knowing your hard work in raising chickens is well-protected.