Unrecognized predators

[nana chicken43]

We have been finding carcasses of pullets (very young) maybe 4 months old with only wings , feet and backbone and a few feathers. Any clues ? They are in an old semi trailer that we converted into a barn and have never had any trouble until just a few weeks ago and only in the one pen. We have moved the birds and put live traps in that pen but last night it got one of my little silkies
(housed in neighboring pen) and the same remains were left behind. HELP !!!! Not sure what were dealing with so not sure if our methods are working. Anything that looked like their doorway has been covered with heavy wire and boarded up.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

It would help if you could post some photos of the pens the predator is assessing did we can assess how they are getting in which will factor into iding them. It will also allow us to help you better secure your pens

 

[MillersFarm]

Finding out what your dealing with shouldn't be your main focus. I'd start predator-proofing your run/coop for now and as for whats killing your poultry i am clueless. I would need to see some pictures if you dont mind going out and taking some.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I will say, losing the last bird shows your current methods are not working.

 

[jvls1942]

I would guess you have a resident pred.
it is not getting in, it IS in.
rat, or cat are my best guess.
not a weasel not a raccoon.
maybe an owl ??

use the dead chicken as bait .

.....jiminwisc......,

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I would guess you have a resident pred.
it is not getting in, it IS in.
rat, or cat are my best guess.
not a weasel not a raccoon.
maybe an owl ??

use the dead chicken as bait .

.....jiminwisc......,

Based on?

 

[Cntry1958]

Also ask around or go out or buy a wild life Cam. Set it up so you know what your dealing with. As you know it will be back again. Secure the pens look for any holes where something had dug in and back out. Look for marks on the ground where you can see slide marks where they maybe getting under the coop. Check ventilation areas to make sure one of them are not damaged. Check high and low to see where its getting in and out again.

 

[The Moonshiner]

Years ago I had a bit younger birds then yours ending up like you described.
Ended up being feral cats from neighbors.

 

[nana chicken43]

I have added photos. Our dogs are real good at finding cats if they're. around. They have gotten several. The only birds being bothered up until last. night were in the pen in the pics which is at the rear doors on the trailer which are the original trailer doors.

 

[mobius]

See electric fence thread in my signature.