Help with Predator ID (Graphic)

[lovemyroos]

Over the last month, I’ve found 3 dead hens on my backyard. (Not my chickens, but I do have chickens in secure coops.)

In each case, the entire bird seems to have been eaten except for some of the wings (and a foot in one case). In all three cases, the gizzard was untouched; other than that, no organs and very little gore left.

Also, something I thought odd: in one hen, I found an unbroken egg yolk among the feathers (my dog tried to roll in it, lovely). And in this morning’s there was an entire egg, cracked but otherwise untouched. So whatever the predator is, it doesn’t like eggs.

The last two were found in the same place, out in the open grass, not under a tree or fence. I’ve never seen any of these birds in my yard alive, so guessing they were brought here.

Any guesses? I live in a semi rural area and we have coyotes, hawks, owls etc around but nothing I’ve found online quite matched the pattern I’m seeing. I’d like to know so I can be sure my coops are safe, although they’ve proven secure so far. Also getting tired of cleaning up what’s left

 

[High Country Hens]

Sounds like maybe a canine? Coyote or dog? Leaving the eggs has me a bit puzzled though, usually a dog loves raw egg. Any neighbors have chickens and maybe a dog that likes to chase and now eat chicken? It's maybe a dog that got in trouble for harassing the flock in the past & now sees your place as a safe zone for eating his kill. Put up a trail cam & you'll know for sure.

 

[High Country Hens]

Are there mountain lions where you are?

 

[Danny188]

Let us know if you find out what did it, I would try to find out which neighbor is losing chickens and notify them.

 

[cmom]

For now, unless you catch the predator in action, it's just a guessing game. If you have a game camera, put it up and then you will know what you are dealing with. I have several cameras on my property and when I put up my first camera, I was surprised at the predators that roam here especially at night. Good luck...

 

[Chicks in VA]

if you live in north east U.S.A it myight be a fisher cat they are rare but still might be there
dont know if they like eggs or not