Were we separated at birth? Lol! Sounds like our life. Wow. Sorry about your birds. The first year is always hardest, I find. With every year, you learn how to do things better. One step at a time. I am in the 4th year of raising poultry & I've learned SO much! Trail cam(s) & a good firearm can do wonders for preds! Provided its all legal where you are to shoot one. Hope you have better success in the coming years! 
