Hens, peeps, 2 ducks missing, no feathers, no sign of struggle.

[whenchickensdream]

During the night on July 3, 1 hen with 10 peeps (she had 17 - 5 weeks old) were gone, so were 2 full grown ducks, a 10 week old blue slate turkey and another barred rock hen. The dog was in the house because he is afraid of the fireworks otherwise he sleeps outside when it is so hot and keeps everyone safe. We've had chickens missing, one here, one there that had gotten out but not so many at one time. And there were always signs that something had happened, at least feathers. There are no feathers and no sign of a struggle. There are foxes around but with all the fireworks going off, I can't imagine they would take a chance and how many would there have to be to take that many at one time. My brother gets up at 3:30 to do the milking so it would have had to happen between 9 and 3:30. It is so strange.

 

[luvmychixandducks]

Possibly two legged predators?
We lost a van to a couple of out of towners who needed a ride back to Connecticut from Mass. on July 4 many years ago- our Shepherd was vigilant 364 days a year, and a total basket case on July 4 from the fireworks- both public and private- so those two guys picked the right night and the right van for their trip home.
(They ran it out of gas in Wallingford CT and we had to drive down to recover it the following weekend.)
Perhaps you were the victim of an opportunistic thief- or thieves- who counted on the noise to distract both you and your dog. Lots of folks do parties etc over the holiday, and are not always flock watching.

 

[whenchickensdream]

We had actually thought of that. It is just my brother who lives on the farm so he does the best he can. It was just the oddest thing that there were no feathers. There are still over 100 chickens, 15 turkeys and a few guineas. I get so attached to the little ones and enjoy them running - flying or more like flapping their tiny wings trying to keep up with momma hen. Thank you so much for your reply.

 

[wademach1977]

I know owls sometimes can get chickens and not leave a trace and even get ducks as well.

 

[CMV]

So many birds missing in one night with no trace of struggle...you are looking for a 2 legged predator. Time to get some locks and game cams.

I am sorry for your losses.

 

[BayGoose]

If it was somebody stealing his birds, they'll probably be back for more. I'd definitely set up a game cam.