[SAHMinHawaii]

We live in southern arizona in small town. We dont live out in the country but less than a block from our house is a farm that has cows. Several times there have been coyotes, havelinas and rattlesnakes in the front yards. In 3 years we have never had a rattlesnake in our backyard. The wildlife come out at night. We have a 3/4 acre backyard with a brick wall fence. Only thing is we have a RV gate. So rattlesnakes could come in through the bottom. I finally got dh to agree to chickens. Only thing he is concerned with are rattlesnakes. He's afraid that they will come to the backyard because of the chicks, hens and eggs. I would hate for one of my children to get bit by a rattler. Any ideas. We live in a regular neighborhood, but being so close to the field worries me too. Thoughts? Ideas?

 

[didelphus]

I don't imagine that rattlesnakes would seek out your chickens. Now we had two rattlesnakes in our yard, last year, at different times. ONe was right behind my chicken house but I don't really think it had anything to do with the chickens. It was just where she happened to be.
I'd make sure you remove the eggs daily, though. I'm not sure rattlesnakes would even eat eggs but we have had rats in the chicken house coming after any leftover eggs at night and the rats might attract the snakes.

 

[SAHMinHawaii]

Thanks Mama. That was my feeling too. DH is just really worried. It doesnt help that my neighbor agreed with him.

 

[confustication]

I doubt they'd come after the chickens- however, it's not too hard to create pretty safe areas- keep the grass/weeds down, don't pile lumber/anything they can hide under around etc.

I am very very aware of the dangers of rattlesnakes (I was bitten a couple years ago picking up a piece of cardboard near a dumpster at work- I no longer have nerve function to most of my right hand) but the reality is that with responsible landscaping and maintenance you can keep your yard pretty snake unfriendly.

 

[SAHMinHawaii]

I'm sorry to hear about your bite and loss of function in your arm. Thank God you are alive mama. Thank you for your encouragement and tips. I think this will be possible. I am waiting to hear back from the hatchery nearby. I want bantam silkies. I'll go take pics of the area i want the coop.