Snakes in Chicken Runs: Not Hunting Chickens, Just Defending Themselves – Experts Clarify Common Myth
…Farmers urged to consult extension services for tailored advice
In rural farming communities across Nigeria, from the poultry hubs of Ogun State to backyard coops in Abuja suburbs, a chilling sight often sparks panic: a venomous snake slithering into a chicken run, leaving a trail of dead birds in its wake.
Farmers assume the intruder is on a deadly hunt for their prized layers. But experts say that’s a dangerous misconception, snakes rarely target chickens as prey.
“Snakes don’t come for the chickens; they’re after the rodents feasting on spilled feed,” explains Dr. Aminu Bello, a herpetologist at the University of Abuja.
“Once inside, curious chickens swarm the snake, pecking aggressively. The snake strikes purely in self-defence, biting multiple birds without eating them.”
This behaviour stems from a snake’s biology. Reptiles only hunt prey they can fully swallow whole, chickens are often too large.
The rest? Warning shots to say, “Back off!” In Nigeria’s tropical climate, common culprits like the puff adder or black mamba enter coops drawn by rats and mice lured by unsecured feed stores.
Not all snakes are rodent-focused, though. Egg-loving species such as cobras and pythons occasionally raid nests for a meal.
A 2024 survey by the Nigerian Institute for Animal Science reported over 500 poultry losses to snakebites in southern states alone, underscoring the need for vigilance amid rising backyard farming amid economic pressures.
Simple Steps to Snake-Proof Your Coop
Poultry farmers can drastically cut risks with these practical measures:
Install strong wire mesh fencing at least 1.5 metres high, buried 30cm into the ground to block underground entry.
Secure all feed in rodent-proof bins; eliminate spills that attract mice.
Clear overgrown vegetation around the run, snakes love cover.
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Use motion-activated lights or natural repellents like garlic sprays, though professional snake-proofing is best for high-value farms.
Regularly inspect for gaps; a determined snake can squeeze through just 1cm openings.
“Prevention saves lives, both poultry and human,” Dr. Bello advises. “In places like Kano or Enugu, where poultry is a key income source, these steps protect livelihoods.”
As Nigeria’s agribusiness booms, understanding snake behaviour empowers farmers to coexist safely with wildlife.
Consult local extension services for tailored advice.
