4-week old chick almost lost to hawk and acting strangely

[StephanieC]

A hawk dove on my 4-week old chicks while I was giving them outside time in an x-pen fence, like what you use for dogs. It all happened so fast I am not sure if the hawk ever actually touched any of the chickens, but when it was over one of the chicks was stuck between the bars of the fence. She must have flown into it in fright. I managed to get her freed, with some difficulty, and she can walk fine, wings seem fine, and I see no obvious injuries. But she isn't acting normal, and I am hoping it is just her being upset from the trauma and that she will be fine tomorrow.

Tonight she isn't eating or drinking, stays by herself and her eyes close often. The others have been active, but she isn't. When I last looked at her, all the others were bedded down, but she was just standing there looking miserable and puffed up a bit. Now I looked again and she is finally lying down.

Any thoughts? I am so angry with myself, I knew this could happen, and it happened on my watch. I stupidly thought a hawk wouldn't dive on them if I was nearby.

 

[lightchick]

I'd wait and see if she gets any better tomorrow.

 

[Eggcessive]

Sorry about your chick. She may have injured herself internally, but hopefully it is just shock, and some sleep will help her. It's hard ot to put them outside when the weather is nice. Perhaps you can put some plastic poultry netting over the top of your pen. Watch her for any swelling that could be a leaking air sac, or any twisting of her neck that may look abnormal (wry neck.). I hope she starts acting more normal tomorrow.

 

[StephanieC]

Thanks. I will definitely be getting the netting before they go out again. Her neck seems fine, but yes, I am hoping for better things tomorrow. Is there any sense in taking a chick to the vet?

 

[lightchick]

You could take her to a vet. Oh and hi! I noticed that this is your first post so you must be new!

 

[StephanieC]

Thanks, yes I am. These are my first chickens, and I thought I had been doing well by them...until now :-(

I have five (and I hope it stays that way). Two Easter Eggers, two buff Orpingtons and Cuda, the Barred Rock, who is the one I am worried about. Figures, she is my favorite.

 

[StephanieC]

Happy to report that Cuda is doing better and better as the day goes by. She is eating and drinking and being more active. I guess she was just scared out of her wits. And my temporary outdoor run has a chicken wire top now.

Thanks to all who responded last night!

 

[Radhanuga]

Glad to hear Cuda is doing better

Welcome to BYC, I'm new too and learning every day.