What took my chick?

[robyn8]

it could have been a snake, can fit in the tiniest of holes and can swallow a baby in very little time

If it did swallow a baby while wouldn't it be too big then to fit through any tiny gaps? We've only ever seen gardners or blue racers out here but I'm by no means an expert.

 

[JessicaJessica13]

I had the same type of cage for my chicks, and ended up finding out that a brown hawk came and took one. it wasn't very big, around 2-3 feet. we also have cats roaming around but the cat would've left evidence.

 

[robyn8]

I had the same type of cage for my chicks, and ended up finding out that a brown hawk came and took one. it wasn't very big, around 2-3 feet. we also have cats roaming around but the cat would've left evidence.

Thanks for the reply! Do you think I should just not let them in the open top area till the chicks are bigger?

 

[JessicaJessica13]

Thanks for the reply! Do you think I should just not let them in the open top area till the chicks are bigger?

yes. that would be a great idea- but Hawks can still get after chickens. you should check on them every once in.a while to make sure they're okay. I had a 3 pound rabbit, he was 3 years old. a hawk took him. Hawks go after anything they can find! but chickens have the ability to run very fast, so they should be good.

 

[robyn8]

Thanks Jessica! I'll leave them on lock down till the babies are a bit bigger. There have been more squabbles lately in the coop and run so that's why I was letting them out. Mama hen is quite the jerk towards everyone and I thought some more space would help. But they'll just have to deal for a while.