Was it a Fox?

[Munch]

Morning.

Not a great morning for me .... I have just had to scoop up what was left of my favourite girl. We got Pepper and and her sister Chilli at 10 days old and they were hand reared. Pepper being the most sweetest cuddly chicken you would have had the pleasure to meet.

This morning I found her laying on the floor of the enclosure in one corner, there was only here body left, her head and neck had been torn off.

I am trying to still work out why she was not in a coop, it was not me that tucked them in last night. They have open topped/free range enclosures with 7 foot fences apart from one side where the fence is 5 foot, but they have never gone over that one (maybe due to the slatted design).

We have had chickens for over 3 years and while we have seen foxes around, even in the garden they have never bothered with the chickens. We live near the town center so they probably fine it easy to raid a bin rather than chase their food.

Is this the work of a fox? or do I have another predator I need to worry about?

[VirginVegGrower]

So sorry Munch - don't know but what a horrid find. Hope your day gets better.

[frias]

That's sad Munch. I guess it could have been a fox, polecat or badger. The first 2 at least are capable of getting over 6 foot fences. I'm not sure about a badger. The only way to keep the chickens safe is to have a fully enclosed run including the top or have an electric fence. Unfortunately whatever it was will probably be back so youi'll have to be extra vigilent.

[jessmorris]

A mink would probably be just as agile too.....

[Munch]

Ah! Thanks but it hasnt!

[baldrick]

so sorry. Only just got on as my phone keeps booting me out. Dont know what to say. Big hugs x

[VirginVegGrower]

Munch, dare I ask? Hope your evening has calmed down a bit.