Hello I am at my witts end as to what to do next!
Two days ago we came home after just two hours away and our two large hens (that have a large run with six foot fence but open top) were hiding in their coop and the two little bantams (that have a run within the large run) were no where to be seen. We eventually found them un harmed under some bushes in the garden. There was no sign of anything having got over or under the both fences. We netted the top of the little bantams run thinking it was a good move.
This afternoon we came home and the two large hens again in the coop petrified and one bantam hiding in the corner of their run but no sign of the other but two lots of feathers in the garden. Something has killed and taken her away which is heartbreaking because we made it more difficult for them to escape by netting the top. No signs of how and what got in. Both times were mid afternoon. Would it have been a weasel, stoat or polecat? If so, how on earth do you keep them out? I know the blighter will be back.
Sorry for the lengthy post. We have had hens for 15 years and this is our first predation. What can we do to keep our chickens safer?