Hen killed by unknown predator (gore)

[cathloveydovey]

So, I went outside to give my hens some leftover sardines from my lunch and I noticed there were no hens running up to greet me. I looked straight ahead into the run and saw my color mutation, silver laced Orpington dead on the floor. I ran over and examined her and saw only her head to her shoulders was stripped to the bone, covered in flies and yellow jackets. If anyone could tell me what kind of ungrateful predator did this while I was at school today, that would be appreciated.

 

[Fintechie]

I am so sorry. Was the run closed? Any idea when it happened during night or day? I was told certain predators only came out during night, such as raccoon...

 

[WthrLady]

I'm sorry. That looks like a raptor attack.

 

[cathloveydovey]

I am so sorry. Was the run closed? Any idea when it happened during night or day? I was told certain predators only came out during night, such as raccoon...

Run is closed, yes. It happened during the day, I was gone for school and went out to give my hens the rest of my lunch. We do have raccoons due to a neighbor of mine hoarding their trash, which I catch eating the chicken food when I go to lock them up. I know some predators only eat the head or will decimate a flock but only take one bird (happened to me last year). But I want to know if anyone is absolutely sure which predator this would be. The easy bet would definitely be the raccoons, but this was in broad daylight.

I'm sorry. That looks like a raptor attack.

Lol, they are raptors themselves

 

[WthrLady]

Hahaha Clever girl.

Hmmm if the run was covered then a bird of prey, if there is no way in for one, isn't the culprit.

I would then be thinking raccoon or rat.

 

[pennyJo1960]

mostly Racoon Very sorry hardware cloth poultry netting amazon

 

[WthrLady]

http://www.backyardchickenelearning.com/how-to-tell-which-predator-is-killing-your-chickens/

 

[Skippersnh]

Raptor and owls do that

 

[WthrLady]

Accessibility and time of day. Close trash problem. I think rat.

 

[Sequel]

I’m so sorry! I lost one to a hawk and that was exactly what mine looked like. I caught him in the act so I know for sure what happened to her. At this point all you can do is tighten up security. I got netting put up soon after.