Remove Attractants and Clear Cover

Store all feed in sealed metal containers with locking lids and clean up spilled grain, scraps, and eggs daily. Remove or secure garbage, compost, and fallen fruit near the coop area. Keep vegetation trimmed low around the coop perimeter to eliminate hiding cover for predators.

Why It Works

Spilled feed and unsecured food waste attract rodents, which in turn draw larger predators like raccoons, foxes, skunks, and snakes to the area. Once these predators discover the coop while scavenging, they shift their attention to the turkeys. Removing the initial food attractant breaks this chain and reduces predator visits. Cleared vegetation also eliminates stalking cover within 10 to 15 feet of the coop.

Tips

• Collect eggs promptly since egg scent attracts raccoons, opossums, and snakes
• Switch to treadle feeders that close when not in use to eliminate overnight feed access for rodents
• Control existing rodent populations around the coop perimeter before they attract larger predators