Orange Oil Against Raccoons?

[calista]

I've read the helpful threads about using the citrus oil I find at Wal-Mart against mite infestations in the coop. However, my biggest problem is going to be raccoons, and I was told by my helpful feed store guy that this stuff, if sprayed around the coop, repels raccoons, as they supposedly hate the smell.

Does anyone have any experience with how well this suggestion actually works? Thanks!

 

[rhoda_bruce]

Thats a first for me, but if that would be helpful, I am wondering why I somehow missed that info when I needed it. I will check later and see what everyone else says. The only thing that has ever worked for me was a 22rifle and cast iron pot with seasonings. They leave me alone now that I have a Coop Knox, which I highly recommend to anyone that wants chickens for themselves rather than the local wildlife.

 

[calista]

I guess "feed store guys" can be wrong!

Most of the info on the Net posted by wildlife removal experts and trappers indicate THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN EFFECTIVE RACCOON REPELLENT. This includes coyote urine, cayenne pepper, castor oil, mothballs, and ultrasonic sound units. And orange oil, too, I guess.

Oh, well, it was a nice thought for an inexpensive strategy...

 

[elmo]

I wouldn't bet my chickens' life on it: your best bet is a secure coop/run.

 

[Penturner]

I know I have coons in my neighborhood and I don't have chickens yet. I am simply building strong because the birds I am getting are very expensive and fairly rare. I am actually thinking of installing two sheets of wire placed 3 and a half inches apart just to limit a coons ability to reach through. I have two large dogs to help keep them away as well but I still have had one try to climb through a screen door to my kitchen. both dogs barking and me standing no more than 10 feet away. I will trap and kill them if I have to and have already done the home work to find out I can do it legally.