Someone stole some of my chicks!! (update page 2)

[Tala]

OMG OMG OMG!!

I just went out to feed and 3 chicks are missing. Gone, not a trace.
Their pen is intact, no sign of predators unless they can undo and re-do the latch.
Not so much as a feather out of place. I can't believe this!

One pullet and 2 cockerels missing.

I really can't believe that I didn't notice earlier, but I had 4 eggs in my hands and I was just giving everone a passing check. I do all my feeding and counting while everyone is roosting for the night.

I really don't want to bring them back inside, but I am worried now!!

I set my trap just on the off chance, but due to the light being unplugged combined with the lack of bodies or signs of damage I really think the predator is human.

 

[Shiningfeather]

How old were the ones they took?

 

[Tala]

They are 4 weeks old tomorrow (Saturday)

 

[lovemychickies]

Thinking of you Tala!

I can't imagine how incredibly unnerving that must be. Yikes.

Thinking of you and your little babies. I hope this gets resolved.

 

[mischievouschickens]

Tala,

As I was reading this thread and before I got to your last post, I was thinking maybe you could set up a camcorder or webcam to monitor outside? Then I got to your post where your chicks were missing.... I am so sorry to hear that. I'd be upset, worried and distraught too. Please keep us updated.

 

[Tala]

Quote:
I might have to invest in one of those game cameras - and lock it whatever I mount it on.

I JUST washed some eggs for "suspect neighbor" so tomorrow morning after I double-check the yard maybe I'll just take them over and mention that some of my chicks are missing -did they see anything? If it's not them, I'm at a complete loss for WHO might know, much less want them.

If they don't turn up in the daylight I'm filing a police report before I leave for work.

 

[Wolf-Kim]

Honestly, I'm worried about anyone in my yard, uninvited. If they aren't invited they don't belong.

Let's not try to blow this out of proportion.

To the OP, I hate a thief. I hope that the chicks turn up, if not, I hope you find who or what did it. Rats will often take adolescent birds, but with the other signs, such as the unplugged chord, it would seem too coincidental.

 

[Shiningfeather]

I think the camera would be well worth the investment for you. Would your neighbors even know how to take care of the chickens?

 

[Sillystunt]

I think "people" no matter what race in your yard is an issue.

I would agree on the camera's!

OR Solar motion detector flood lights. When they walk over.....BANG let there be light and a big sign that says, "SMILE your on hidden video"

 

[Tala]

Quote:
Well there IS a motion light over the back door and it didn't seem to do anything.