5 out of 6 chickens killed

[K9bandit]

So i decided to go on vacation with the wife. While we were away got a phone call from the daughter and she was screaming the chickens are dead
Seems something got into the coop at night and killed 5 out of 6 chickens.
A couple of them were ripped apart and the others necks were snapped. Dont know what could have done it and how they got into the coop I always thought it was fort knox. Guess not

Where can i get some new pullets and should i get them this time of year or should i wait until spring. As for the lone survivor how should i introduce new chickens to her and will she survive being alone for a wile if i dont get some new ones. Right now she is living in a large guinie pig cage in my daughters room until i get home.


Some one told me it might have been a fisher cat that got in because of all the carnage.

Any and all help would be helpful

Thanks
Jay

 

[Ridgerunner]

You might check out the sticky at the top of this section, predators and pests. My first guess is raccoon, but it could be something else.

 

[~*Sweet Cheeks*~]

Was your daughter locking up the coop at night?

If the coop was locked up, you must have a small hole or gap somewhere or something dug under.

I wouldn't get any more chickens or put the lone survivor back out until you find out how something got in at night.

Once the coop is really preditor proof or the girls get locked up at night, then I would look locally for a few girls the same age as yours. Chickens do need other flock members.

Good luck to you.