Missing heads

[picklescrew]

Something got into my coop and killed two of my hens and two baby chicks only eating the heads. Then ate the skin and eyes off the heads of three more but left them alive. I didn't see any holes where something could have entered the cage. What could have done this?

 

[ChickenGrass]

With the chicks could it have
Been a grey crow.
They usually eat their eyes and pull off their heads.
For the hens I think that should like a mink.
We're the hens pulled around and is there any gaps where they were sleeping?

 

[chickens really]

Could it of been a small weasel?? They can fit in a very small hole..

 

[whirlwind2357]

Weasel would be my best guess for this, because they can fit through very small holes. I've even had them squeeze through chicken wire in the past. Try baiting a small trap with raw meat to catch it, and cover all chicken wire or openings with 1/2 inch hardware cloth.

 

[chickens really]

Yes, very small holes...Mouse sized holes....

 

[virgilmills]

This has happened to so many of my friends-a raccoon. They're incredibly clever and have opposable thumbs so they can maneuver some locks or reach through fences. And, they're also known for pulling off the heads of chickens. Check out to see if you have one in your area, and if you do there are some pretty simple ways to prevent more mishaps.