Mystery hen disapperance

[crazyeggs]

I went out this morning to feed my chickens and one is missing

There are little tracks in the fresh snow as a chipmunk would make but no others. This is the first time that I have lost a caged bird to something other than my dog. I am beginning to wonder if it was a hawk but wouldn't there be some evidence left behind? I have found nothing of concern within or outside the perimeter of there enclosure...What really has me worried is she was from my LO project pen and I can't loose anymore hens from this pen

 

[groundpecker]

Hawks are usually daytime predators. I do not know the types of predators you have in your area. I would suggest setting a live trap for the predator. I would also check for entry points for predators around the run/coop area. Most predators will keep coming back, once they have a fresh chicken meal. I am sorry for your loss.

 

[crazyeggs]

Mystery solved. Looks like she flew the coop sometime yesterday as I went out tonight to feed the chickens and I turned the corner of the house and there she was

 

[sourland]

Lucky hen. She could easily have become something's dinner.