What is going on?

[All the Chickens]

So this morning I got up to go feed and water my chickens(5 weeks), and one was dead. It was missing most of its feathers and all of its insides. No other chicks were dead. However, when I got home, another chick was dead, same way. There were no holes in the fence or anything. The pen is a smallish rectangle that is up off the ground. Can someone tell me what this is? Thanks

 

[DobieLover]

Have you checked their enclosure closely for small opening that would allow smaller predators? It sounds like you may have a weasel getting at them. They can gain access through openings as small as an inch.

 

[Hobbits Mommie]

Or a rat. You definitely have a predator. If you don't have 1/4 hardware cloth covering every opening, the smallest rat can come right through. They'll even bring their buddies back and wipe out your entire flock in one night.

 

[All the Chickens]

Thank y'all so much. I will cover them tonight

 

[cmom]

If you have a game camera, put it up. Most likely it will be back and you will know what you're dealing with.

 

[PlymouthRockBBredSebright]

or they could be killing eachother by pecking. its not uncommon

 

[Birdsong 82]

When a possum got my chicken she was gutted from the rear and feather loss I’m sure from the struggle. I suggest several inspections of coop and buttoning up even the smallest of holes. And game camera will tell you what’s around trying to get in

 

[All the Chickens]

Thanks guys. My dad went out and helped cover anything that could possibly let something enter. Hopefully no one else dies

 

[Aunt Angus]

Good luck! Your situation prompted me to do the same. I gave my little coop a good looking over and found two possible areas of entry (super tiny, but still...). I shoved hardware cloth down into the areas and used hog rings to sew up the existing hardware cloth a little tighter over the "plugs."

I really hope everything works out for you and your flock. I think this is probably every BYCer's fear.

 

[Butterscotchbitesfinger]

I hate all predators
Hope your chickens are okay