Keeping snakes out of chicken coop

[MillWeld]

I built this coop 2 yrs ago with the goal of having no opening larger than the 1/2" hardware cloth grid. I still think I succeeded in this but twice we have found a large (1.5" dia and 5' long) corn snake enjoying the eggs. The first time we think was due to the door being left open while the chickens were in the garden but the 2nd time it occurred again even though we were more attentive to the door. How small an opening must such a snake have to get in? Take a look at the pics. The hardware cloth goes around the entire perimeter and is below grade a few inches AND is flared outward 2 feet underground to discourage digging pests. There is a full ceiling. Where there were small gaps between boards, I caulked. The door fits tightly and is secured by 2 catches and 2 hasps. Today, the snake searched the inside perimeter for 1/2 hour and couldn't escape me until I open the door. (Sorry, most of the pics are sideways).
Bob

 

[Mendonsy]

It doesn't seem like the snake should be able to get through that hardware cloth.
Maybe a knot came loose in one of those nice pine boards??

 

[Soundguy]

that does look pretty tight...

 

[crash325]

Wrap the lower 2 or 3 feet with "shade Cloth". Small holes, tough & lasts. Not very expensive.
Lowe's has it & on the internet.

 

[Spindifferent]

Snakes are quick. They can zip in/out the coop door in a matter of seconds.

We've come to accept the "wildlife tax" of occasional losses on our eggs, orchard and vegetables despite our best efforts.

 

[BeezFun]

Can't tell what kind of roofing you have, if it's corrugated metal I've found all kinds of creatures under there, although never a snake. Once they're in the roof space, there's usually some way in but I'll have to say that thing looks pretty tight. You might try sprinkling some flour or cornstarch around doors and walls at night. You'll see his trail if he comes in that way, and probably lots of other little footprints too. I've done that to figure out how racoons are getting on the house roof.

 

[MillWeld]

Snakes are quick. They can zip in/out the coop door in a matter of seconds.

That is a plausible explanation. I would not have thought they were so bold - quick, yes, but not so smart. I have seen snakes under the 5V galv roofing resting on top of the pine ceiling waiting for an opportunity. If they are so bold and quick, I guess they could drop down in front of an open door and zip in. Thanks. Bob

 

[whistlepig]

I have been told that guineas kill snakes. I don't know how well they get along with chickens though.

 

[npalen]

Dad used to tell the story about how the bullsnake got into the rabbit hutch thru the chicken wire, swallowed a rabbit and then couldn't get back out.

 

[Soundguy]

I have been told that guineas kill snakes. I don't know how well they get along with chickens though.

i know turkey will.. and i have seen roosters ( chickens ) gang up on them too.