So sorry to hear about your hen. If it makes any difference, you may have saved some of mine from the same fate. I hadn't thought about cover for them, they have a large run with just the coop to run to. There are several trees for shade but I plan to make them some kind of cover now. Last fall I had heard a commotion and when I looked out there two hawks had basically flown into another part of the fence away from the chickens (we have a large fenced area, 7' where the previous owners raised emu). It appeared to me that they were trying to fight or mate and basically fell out of the sky, LOL. They went on their way but it was a little too close for comfort. I've also noted an increase in the predator population, I guess they are getting hungry or gearing up for spring litters or something. Lori

I lugged the heavy 400mm lens around everywhere yesterday and today, insuring my not seeing a single interesting bird. But despite nightly below freezing temps I'd better keep it handy! We've even started camping in the yard at night again-especially since I noticed how well I sleep outside I moved the Cuddeback camera and caught the female Red Fox by surprise last night, but so far no results from sprinkling a cup of catnip around in front of it and spraying Obsession around (a tip from a jaguar research website, but maybe my bottle doesn't have real civet cat musk) 3-19-09, female Red Fox, 8:29 p.m. From Cuddeback trail camera photos-wildlife on Picazo Farm pond trail

I had a Cooper's around here last year, but it only stole baby Blue Jays. It would come every evening about the same time, and the Jays would go nuts. I didn't have Bluebirds nest here last year. I am very thankful I have not seen the Cooper's this season. It must worry you sick. I sure hope your baby Blues are able to hide well enough. I know the Cooper's have to eat too, but I sure wish they'd stick with Starlings and House Sparrows.

mangobailey--your cats may have disappeared, and you may have hawks around, but may not mean the hawks took the cats. Coyotes take cats everywhere, even in suburban neighborhoods. Hawks may just be looking for the carcass (e.g. a turkey vulture or other large hawk), or for small rodents attracted by the activity. About 15 - 20 years ago when coyotes became abundant in our area, everyone's cats were disappearing. Keeping them in at night helps. Hope this is helpful.