A few months ago we discovered we had a predator hanging around our chicken coop. We never saw it but we lost 80% if our flock to it. Based on the evidence left behind we believe it to be the work of racoon(s).
We only have two hens left ~ Henri and Mrs. Dash . We have secured the coop for the time being and will be re building the coop with a larger enclosed run...no more "free birds". We will bury the chicken wire / hardware cloth, pour a concrete floor and create a completely enclosed spring, summer, fall run for the girls. They cannot free range any longer...this makes me sad but we love our fresh eggs and want to keep our beautiful birds safe and happy. Our very first hen Henri, is one of the survivors ( thank goodness) she is such a great pet but is no longer laying so we have been having to buy eggs.....what a drag. She is retired but we will be adding back to our flock in the Spring and will be able to turn the chicks out by mid summer and she will show them the ropes. Good bird.
The loss is a sad one.
