Uninvited visitor

Now that makes sense. I had noticed that the toes in the first picture pointed outwards. I was trying to think of some critter that toed out that much - a basset makes perfect sense!



photo credit Google Images

 

The toes had me confused as well.

 

Greetings and welcome to BYH @Tonya Morrison from NE TX! So glad you joined us. Not sure why you said you're an idiot... I hope you'll consider taking a minute to visit the new member's thread and introduce yourself so folks can welcome you properly. https://www.backyardherds.com/forums/new-member-introductions.17/ There's a wealth of info, knowledge and experience shared in the multitude of threads. Browse around and see what interesting stuff you can find. You'll get to "meet" folks at the same time. By all means post away when the desire strikes you, especially if you have questions (provide as much detail/info as possible and pictures truly help)... With all the great folks here, generally someone will respond in no time at all. Oh, and we all love pics, so post them anytime you feel the need! Please make yourself at home!

PLEASE put at least your general location in your profile. It could be very important if/when you ask for or offer help or advice. You know, climate issues and such. I recommend at least your state as most folks won't be able to figure out where if you put anything more specific (county, town, street, etc) by itself. Old folks like me will never remember from this post & look there first. To add it, mouse hover over Account top right and a drop down will appear. Click on Personal Details and scan down. You'll see the spot for Location. Then go to the bottom and save changes. Thanks! Hope you enjoy the site!

 

The mystery has evidently already been solved (Basset) but there are relatively few birds that walk with all four toes forward and most are relatively small. Swifts being about the only ones I know of off hand, tho some others can rotate the 2 rear facing toes forward.

 

The tracks were not bobcats or cougars since the toenails were easily seen. Cats retract their claws when walking so you get rounded toe impressions with no nail impressions. Bassets have relatively large paws for their size. Good to know it was the neighbor's dogs, however, you don't want the neighbor's dogs to get at your stock either. Bad neighbor relations with loss of stock.