Predator?

[IslaBean]

So I think something is after my chickens. They are free range and spend their days in the goat barn and around the yard. On Friday, I found my younger pullet with a small, but deep, cut in her leg. Then yesterday I found my other hen with a deep gash in her neck. Her skin was torn through but no internal organs or tissues were harmed. She had to get stitches and is recovering well. In both cases the girls were completely unharmed other than their cuts. Is a predator doing this to my chickens? What is going after them during the day but doesn’t manage to kill them? I have my girls locked up these next few days until I can figure out what is going on. I’m from Michigan and we mainly deal with raccoons and possums. I’ve spotted badgers, snakes, foxes, and coyotes.

 

[jonezjollyfarm]

Maybe a local kitty cat?

 

[IslaBean]

Maybe a local kitty cat?

Would a cat have been able to tear through a chicken’s leg?

 

[jonezjollyfarm]

I guess it would depend on the size and strength of the cat. Cats like to pounce and play with their prey. It might have just been out for a little practice.

 

[aart]

I'd guess hawk if you haven't found sharp piece of something around.

 

[50-45-1]

Sounds like rat. They will attack a full grown chicken in certain situations.

 

[Molpet]

Juvenile hawk learning

 

[IslaBean]

How do I catch a hawk? I’d like to let my chickens out during the day without being worried.

 

[aart]

How do I catch a hawk? I’d like to let my chickens out during the day without being worried.

Um, you don't....or don't get caught if you do.
...and 'catching' one predator doesn't mean there may not be others lurking.
Predators are part of the risk of free ranging.
A secure run is the only way, doesn't mean you can't ever free range tho.

 

[MissChick@dee]

How do I catch a hawk? I’d like to let my chickens out during the day without being worried.

With good aim and something around 22m.