First hen loss, any help is appreciated

[babsterh]

We are new to owning hens, we've had the girls for 8 months now. I let them free range during the day and everything has been fine until now. I was gone about 2 hours and when I got home I saw feathers everywhere. I found her (BO) body by our herb garden gate; her head and feet were intact but it appeared that something almost gutted her. What is strange is that this is the same chicken that was picked on previously by a couple of other hens. I hate to say this, but is it possible that the other hens killed her? Two of the other hens had blood on their combs, I also saw some feathers from our BR laying around although she didn't appear to be hurt. Also, the hen that was killed was somewhat broody and would sit in the nesting box although I don't think she ever laid an egg...I just can't be certain of this. Any thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated.

 

[HEChicken]

Hmmm...possums tend to gut them, from what I've heard (no direct experience). That would be my first guess. I'm sorry for your loss.

 

[greenmulberry]

I don't think the other hens did that, it would take a lot for a chicken to gut another bird, I don't know if they are able.

They may have picked on the carcass though.