Sudden death of apparently healthy rooster

[sandra]

New to the list and somewhat new to chickens. In early March, I acquired two new Dominque hens and a rooster to put in with my two existing Dominique hens. Quarantined the three new ones and then put them in with my two other hens about six weeks ago. All has been going well. Hens laying, no serious pecking order issues. This morning, I went out at my usual 7:30 to check feed and water and the rooster in the yard dead. I have no idea what may have happened. He appeared healthy. I did see some loose poop in the cooop on several occasions but could never tell who it was coming from. It was a little greener and looser than the rest but it didn't seem to be a daily occurrence from what I could tell. None of these birds seemed to be ill or failing an the rooster seemed very robust. They all live in a completely caged environment, so nothing large enough to kill him could have gotten in and he wasn't damaged. Just dead.

Any guesses as to what it could be? Thanks for any words of advice or speculation.

Sandra in northeast Georgia

 

[panner123]

Is it possible for a snake to get in with your chickens? If they were all healthy that could be your answer.

 

[Cetawin]

Do you know how old he was? Any signs of snakes around the coop and run?

 

[Katy]

I lost one of my BLRW roos a couple of weeks ago. He was fine in the am and dead in the afternoon. No marks or anything. Just one of those things that happen.

 

[sandra]

Thanks for the replies. This rooster was just a year old. No signs of snakes and our heavy gauge care wire is buried about 6" below ground, although a young snake could easily come through the openings, which are 1" square. Could have been a snake. I just picked up snake repellent to spray all round the perimeter but haven't used it yet. Will do today.

It may be just one of those things.

Very much enjoy this site and the discussions. Learning a lot and really enjoying my girls.

Sandra in northeast Georgia