Hawk attack?

[NDchickenlady]

We thought our puppy had attacked our chickens. Today we had 3 large hawks hovering over the coop! What do hawks do to chickens? Attack or take them? Chickens were found with all feathers missing off their backs.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Hawks either take them or eat them in place. There may be feathers, a carcass or nothing depending on the circumstances and the species. A bird that escapes may be missing feathers, but a puppy can do that too.

 

[Northern Flights]

If you are sure it's hawks, take appropriate measures immediately. Period. We had a near miss and it nearly cost a hen. Even the stress from a near miss can be fatal.

 

[NDchickenlady]

Hawks either take them or eat them in place. There may be feathers, a carcass or nothing depending on the circumstances and the species. A bird that escapes may be missing feathers, but a puppy can do that too.

We didn’t catch the pup in the act. She was chewing on the chicken. Seeing the hawks made me think maybe it wasn’t her. So hard to tell without catching her

 

[NDchickenlady]

If you are sure it's hawks, take appropriate measures immediately. Period. We had a near miss and it nearly cost a hen. Even the stress from a near miss can be fatal.

Yes. We have them in the run safe now. No more free ranging for now.

 

[keesmom]

We thought our puppy had attacked our chickens. Today we had 3 large hawks hovering over the coop! What do hawks do to chickens? Attack or take them? Chickens were found with all feathers missing off their backs.

Are you sure they were hawks? Any possible ID?

 

[NDchickenlady]

Are you sure they were hawks? Any possible ID?

Yes. We have many hawks here. Sharp shinned hawks have been spotted

 

[Folly's place]

Hawks will kill and eat chickens, and so will dogs, even puppies.
Keep the birds in their safe coop and covered run for two weeks or more, until those hawks are long gone.
Supervise your puppy at all times or plan to loose chickens!
Mary

 

[HopeSprings]

I lost a second pullet yesterday, first was 10 days prior. Had to be hawk. The flock now stays in the run until the evening.

 

[NDchickenlady]

So sorry