Possums got into coop!

[Chickassan]

No, don't do that just yet. You are quoting size based on estimated bird numbers. Is this perchance a prefabricated coop and run combination, and if so could you give at least an estimation of actual size?

I have 8 hens and the coop is big enough for 12. We live in Florida so there is plenty of daylight. We do have a run attached but I don’t want to keep them locked in. We didn’t have anyone taking care of them the two nights (usually we do) and that’s why they got in. Their behavior has just dramatically changed ever since the incident. I just don’t know if they’ll ever be the same or if I should buy a new coop and move it to a different location? They are just traumatized to go back in.

 

[Ashalee0001]

I don’t know. Perhaps a new coop and location could help but that would be a adjustment for your hens to say the least.
I don’t know your setup or how much you interact with your chickens. It happened 2 weeks ago and you cooped them for 2 days. I would think there’s still something that has them spooked. Completely clean out you coop and do some inspecting.
Do the same with the run. Chickens will tell you things by behaviors that something isn’t right.
I’d start from scratch check everything then coop them again. I don’t know much about possums behaviors but perhaps there’s still a trace of it presence. Scent? Some evidence? Could be something simple like the possum knocked something loose.
If you figure out this mystery we’d love to know too. Best wishes

Tha

 

[Ashalee0001]

Thanks so much! I’m super OCD with coop cleaning,
food and water. I cleaned and sanitized everything. Raised my girls since they were a day old, hold and cuddle daily. It’s just so strange to me. Will def. just buy brand new coop and move, not far, but far enough where they may be able to start over. Thanks so much!!

 

[aart]

Thanks so much! I’m super OCD with coop cleaning,
food and water. I cleaned and sanitized everything. Raised my girls since they were a day old, hold and cuddle daily. It’s just so strange to me. Will def. just buy brand new coop and move, not far, but far enough where they may be able to start over. Thanks so much!!

Cleaning has little do do with predators...but you don't seem willing to address the other issues that do have to do with predator deterrence?