Trying to identify what happened

[dmeaser]

I was surprised to go outside and see two huge pile of feathers in two places where the chickens free range. Then I saw one hen cowering in the corner -- she had been stripped bare of feathers in her middle back, and was limping. But no blood, bite marks, etc. Any clues what might have happened? A bird/hawk? Attacked by another hen? Something else?

 

[CluckerFamily]

Wow! I’m glad she got away!
What predators do you have in your area? Depending on which state or country you are in, the predators change.

 

[Eggcessive]

Can any dogs get to your chickens? They will try to play with and rough up chickens if they can get to them. Raccoons, possums, foxes, weasels, feral cats, and hawks are some of the predators I see here. Watch your chickens to see if a rooster or cockerel is treating her roughly. Other bully hens could also be the cause. For the time being, you may want to lock up your hens inside the run until you figure out what happen.