Predator defecated in the coop?

[farmgirls]

Our 2nd hen was killed (same as the first), not eaten, not taken away, left in same position. Back end has bite marks, feathers all over but this time predator left his markings in the coop (about the size poop of a 20 pound dog). We are all fenced but we forgot to close the hatch to the run last night!!!! We haven't seen stray dogs. What other animal could this be? So sad!

 

[DraigAthar]

Fox? Coyote? If the entire bird was left behind, it was more likely a dog. Most wild predators don't leave the kill behind.

 

[farmgirls]

I stand corrected, my husband just told me the predator did maul her head and back end and did eat her insides so maybe this was a weasel. Anyone ever hear of a predator leaving its bowel movement?

 

[DraigAthar]

Well, sure, lots of animal poop wherever they feel like it. Predators are no different. Could be skunk, raccoon, weasel, you name it. With predators, I don't think it matters so much that we ID the culprit. The steps taken to secure a coop are the same for most small predators, and should be taken regardless.

 

[farmgirls]

Thank you for your reply. One of our favorite birds! Feel terrible!!!!

 

[aart]

There are lots of scat ID sites online.
I've read that fox in particular will poop near a kill...and that fits with a 20 lb dog

 

[mattmatt]

Most likely a coyote or a fox, and if the predator got spooked, then maybe it left it's kill and got out in a hurry. If it feared for its life then it would prolly leave the carcass. Do you have those type of animals around you? Sorry this happened to you

 

[farmgirls]

Thank you all for your replies. Yes, we have all those animals around here. Could have been any of them but I suspect weasel or raccoon. This was our own fault for forgetting to shut the run. I would like to install a little spy camera to ID the culprit. He'll be back.