Will Something Dig Up This Chicken Egg?

Do Skunks Eat Chicken Eggs or Chickens?

Do Skunks Eat Chicken Eggs or Chickens?

FAQ Chickens & Skunks:

The Skunk Experiment: Will it Dig Up This Chicken Egg?

Today I came into the chicken coop to discover this hen was sitting on three eggs. I got the eggs from underneath this hen and got them for an experiment. This experiment consisted of digging a small hole in a dirt pile, so that I could put the egg underneath a pile of dirt to see if an animal, specifically a skunk, would dig it up.
Will something dig up this buried chicken egg?

FAQ Chickens & Skunks

Will Skunks eat Chicken Eggs?

Yes, skunks are known to eat chicken eggs. They have a very sensitive sense of smell and can easily locate and dig up eggs that are not properly secured. It is important to take measures to protect your backyard chickens eggs from skunks to prevent this from happening. When a skunk knows it's route to chickens or their eggs, they will continue to come back!

Will Skunks be Digging for Hidden Chicken Eggs?

Skunks are notorious for their digging behavior! They will be digging in search of hidden chicken eggs if they have a reason for it. Skunks have sharp claws and can easily dig through dirt or bedding material to uncover eggs.

How can I Protect my Chicken Eggs from Skunks?

Here are some tips to protect your chickens and chicken eggs from skunks:
  • Secure the chicken coop: Make sure the coop is sturdy and has no holes or gaps that skunks can squeeze through.
  • Reinforce the chicken run: Use chicken cloth or mesh wire with small openings to prevent skunks from entering the chicken run and accessing the eggs.
  • Collect your eggs frequently: Check for eggs multiple times a day and collect them promptly to minimize the opportunity for skunks to find them.
  • Use covered nesting boxes: Provide nest boxes that are enclosed and have a secure cover to prevent skunks from reaching the eggs.
  • Install motion-activated lights: If you have a real big problems with skunks you can install also install sprinklers or lights. These can startle skunks and discourage them from approaching the chicken coop or run. However, they might get used ti it and bypass your security.

Are there any Natural Discouragements for Skunks?

There are no foolproof natural deterrents for skunks. Some ideas I found online may help to avoid skunks from approaching the chicken coop:
  • Ammonia-soaked rags: Skunks dislike the strong smell of ammonia. Place ammonia-soaked rags around the perimeter of the coop or near areas where skunks are getting access. (i found this tip online. However, I question this because chicken manure is soaked with ammonia and they still access the coops to eat. But I didn't want to hold you guys away from other peoples experiences. (You can find more info about this on Backyard Chickens Forum)
  • Citrus peels or essential oils: Skunks are not crazy of citrus smells. Placing citrus peels or using citrus-scented essential oils around the coop may help repel them.
  • Motion-activated sound devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that can deter skunks and other small pests. (we tried this and it actually helps very good. However, the chickens also get startled! lol)
Skunks will kill chickens
Skunks will kill chickens

What Should I do if I Spot a Skunk near my Chicken Coop?

If you are running into a skunk around your chicken coop, it's essential to stay calm and not startle or provoke it. You might get "sprayed" and the smell is very hard to get rid odd. Here's what you can do:
  • Do not approach or corner the skunk.
  • Keep a safe distance and give the skunk an escape route. (Very Important!)
  • Avoid sudden movements that may spook the skunk.
  • If the skunk is not leaving, try gently directing it away using a broom or long stick.
Skunks are generally not aggressive unless cornered or feel threatened. If you have ongoing skunk issues, it may be best to ask a professional pest control service for safe and effective removal methods. My experience is that that a safe and secure coop is the answer to any rodent or invasive animal to your chickens and chicken eggs!

What Should I do if a Skunk Managed to Access my Chicken Coop and Eat the Eggs?

If a skunk has already accessed your chicken coop and eaten the eggs, it's important to take immediate action to prevent further damage. Here are a few steps to consider:
  • Clean and sanitize the affected areas: Remove any eggshells or remnants left behind by the skunk. Clean the coop and nest boxes thoroughly to avoid bacterias and attracting pests.
  • Strengthen security measures: Identify how the skunk gained access and make necessary repairs or improvements to prevent future incidents.
  • Implement skunk deterrent strategies: Follow the protective measures mentioned earlier in this Chicken FAQs to avoid skunks from returning to your chicken coop.
Read Also:

50 Highest Searched After YouTube Searches for Chickens & Roosters!


Like I said before: The best measurement to avoid issues with skunks and chickens is a safe and secure chicken coop! I had to learn this the hard way!

Below are some other sites where you can find me with more Chicken News, Tips & Tricks, Chicken Care & Backyard Chicken Farming. However, my main outlet is YouTube. I have there a Chicken channel where I post 2x a day Chicken Videos and other (small) adventures of me and my chickens on my Homestead.


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