I have seen hawks in my backyard and it was done during the day. Head and neck completely gone and lots of feathers around. My other four hens are completely spooked and were all hiding in the ivy when I came out to the coop. All were free ranging in a covered area at the time. Thoughts?
Welcome to BYC - sorry for the circumstances. Pulling of feathers and partially eaten carcass are typical of most hawk kills. Be assured that whatever it was, it will return - keep your hens locked up and only free range while supervised.