This one works well for me. Think it will hold 25lbs or so. I usually only put in a couple pounds unless I'm away from the house for a few days.

https://products.blains.com/600/82/828163.jpg

Chickens sometimes just up and die. First one of mine that died when my flock was less than 2 years old I took to the vet. She was sent down to UC Davis, turns out she had ovarian cancer or such.

A few weeks back, El Feo the rooster seemed fine one day. Next day I went out in the afternoon to give them their scratch and he was laying there in the dirt, a little snow stuck on his beak. Good indication he was no longer warm. We'd had flurries off and on that day.

If you're concerned, I'd for sure take them for testing before it wipes the rest out. The messy ass end can be the result of a couple of issues. Some are not good.

The desert is a true treasure for him who seeks refuge from men and the evil of men.
In it is contentment
In it is death and all you seek
(Quoted from "The Bleeding of the Stone" Ibrahim Al-Koni)

member of the cabal of dysfunctional squirrels?