Something attacked my Barred Plymouth Rock

[jnicholes]

Hi everyone,

I just went out to feed my chickens, and I found that one of them has lost a lot of feathers. There is no signs of forced entry in the coop or run, but it’s obvious that something attacked her. She has lost a lot of feathers. I don’t think this is molting.

It’s hard to get pictures because it’s so dark right now, but I set up my trail camera to see if I can catch whatever did this.

I was however, able to get a video of the chicken.

These are the only photos I was able to get:

This track was near my propane tank, which is near the coop. Not sure if it’s raccoon or feral cat.

Any idea what could’ve done this? I am fortifying the coop regardless.

 

[thecatumbrella]

If the run isn't 1/2" (or smaller) hardware cloth, it's possible something reached in and just yanked on her a bit. I've heard of raccoons doing this. I also can't tell if the feathers are missing from one area or all over.

 

[McChooky]

If the run isn't 1/2" (or smaller) hardware cloth, it's possible something reached in and just yanked on her a bit. I've heard of raccoons doing this. I also can't tell if the feathers are missing from one area or all over.

I can't tell you what got hold of her but I can assure you it will be back. 1/2" hardware cloth works if secured properly.Climbers or predators with powerful claws can rip it off if its not attached with screws and washers or secured with wood screws and strips of wood. Its still considered the industry standard for anyone who raises or breeds poultry and/or rabbits.You also need an apron around the bottom to keep our diggers.I hope you can make it safe before it returns

 

[jnicholes]

I figured I’d let you all know that it was a false alarm. It turns out she’s going through a very big molt. Trail camera ruled out anything breaking in and doing damage. There was also no evidence of a break-in.

 

[McChooky]

I figured I’d let you all know that it was a false alarm. It turns out she’s going through a very big molt. Trail camera ruled out anything breaking in and doing damage. There was also no evidence of a break-in.

THis article better explains molting.It helped me a lot when I got chickens. https://featheredfarmlife.com/understanding-chicken-molting-causes-and-strategies/