Bantam chicks killed by a cat

[ailurophile23]

You can plan for every situtation you can think of - but critters often come up with ones you don't think of. It never would have occurred to me either that a chick would fit through such a small hole. Sounds like you have done everything you can to secure the momma and remaining chick. My sympathies again on your loss.

As for chasing off the cat, try squirting it with water (a hose or a spray bottle) or water with vinegar in it. Do you know if the cat is someone's pet? If it is, I would definitely notify them of the deaths it caused - while they may not chose to keep the cat inside, they should be aware of what it is doing. If it is a stray, your options may be more limited.

 

[Chukarbuds]

I agree, it is advisable to keep them penned in until they are big enought to fight off certain predators, I have chicken wire that goes over the top of my pen so nothing can jump in, it was just unfortunate that the little chicks managed to get through the chicken wire holes around the bottom of the pen, which I have now secured and mumma and surviving chick are doing well.
I understand your devistation, I still can't get over it now, the cat is still lurking, I keep having to scare it off, at least it can't get to my chick!!

It makes me mad to hear the cat is still lurking! Its difficult to watch 24/7! Good luck to you and I hope the cat finally gives up, now that you have fixed the fencing more secure!

 

[Roosterlover5]

You can plan for every situtation you can think of - but critters often come up with ones you don't think of. It never would have occurred to me either that a chick would fit through such a small hole. Sounds like you have done everything you can to secure the momma and remaining chick. My sympathies again on your loss.

As for chasing off the cat, try squirting it with water (a hose or a spray bottle) or water with vinegar in it. Do you know if the cat is someone's pet? If it is, I would definitely notify them of the deaths it caused - while they may not chose to keep the cat inside, they should be aware of what it is doing. If it is a stray, your options may be more limited.

Good idea ailurophile23.I think it would help to see if its someones cat.