Weasels sometimes kill multiple chickens without immediately consuming all of them, a behavior that often puzzles observers. This is a natural, instinct-driven response, particularly when vulnerable prey is readily available. Understanding this involves recognizing specific predatory instincts and consumption patterns unique to weasels.
Understanding Surplus Killing
Surplus killing is the phenomenon of killing more prey than can be immediately eaten. This behavior is not exclusive to weasels; it has been observed in various predators, including foxes and wolves, especially when prey is abundant and easily accessible. Predators often consume only the most nutrient-rich parts, such as brains and organs, with remaining carcasses cached or abandoned.
The Instincts Behind the Behavior
Weasels possess a strong, innate predatory drive, triggered by the presence of vulnerable prey. In a confined space like a chicken coop, chickens cannot easily escape or defend themselves, which intensifies the weasel’s killing instinct. Weasels are opportunistic hunters; when they encounter many defenseless animals, their instinct is to kill as many as possible.
This behavior is linked to their high metabolism and need for a consistent food supply. Weasels cannot store much fat, requiring them to consume a significant portion of their body weight daily to maintain energy. This constant need drives their instinct to cache excess kills for future consumption.
Weasel Diet and Consumption Patterns
Weasels do consume their prey, despite appearances. They typically target the neck or head, often biting to the back of the neck. They initially consume nutrient-dense parts, such as the brain and internal organs, which are rich in fats.
After killing, weasels often pile dead chickens or drag carcasses to a secluded spot, creating a cache for later meals. This caching behavior is a survival strategy, ensuring a food source during leaner times, and it explains why victims may appear uneaten at first glance. While they primarily feed on small rodents like mice and voles, their diet also includes birds, eggs, and occasionally larger prey.
Protecting Your Flock from Weasels
Securing a chicken coop effectively is the primary method for preventing weasel attacks. Weasels have slender bodies and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, often as small as 1 inch in diameter. Coops should be constructed with sturdy materials, and all gaps, cracks, or holes must be sealed. Use hardware cloth with a mesh size of 1/2 inch or smaller for walls, windows, and ventilation points, as chicken wire is often insufficient and can be torn or climbed through.
To prevent weasels from burrowing, bury hardware cloth at least 12 inches deep around the coop’s perimeter, with an outward L-shaped bend. Elevating the coop off the ground can also help prevent burrowing issues if the floor is wood. Locking chickens inside their secure coop at night is crucial, as weasels are often nocturnal hunters. Keeping the area around the coop clear of debris or dense vegetation can eliminate potential hiding spots for predators.