Police are investigating the mysterious death of a flock of chickens after they were found in their pen on Wednesday, July 10.

Taylor Springs Police officers were called to a residence on Grant Street at 4:15 p.m. Wednesday when a resident returned home and discovered a number of dead chickens in the pen. According to the police, the resident said the chickens were healthy and very well taken care of.

Investogators said the chicken pen was completely closed and there was no sign of a predator getting through the fence. Officials with Montgomery County Animal Control also assisted at the scene. The chickens' cause of death is still undetermined at this time. Samples have been sent to the University of Illinois.

A release from the Taylor Springs Police Department says a person or persons appeared to have entered the property and interfered with the animals. Anyone with information is urged to contact Macoupin-Montgomery Crimestoppers or the Taylor Springs Police.