Catching Chickens

[Li]

I don't own chickens (though I have many friends who do, and I've always wanted to have some of my own), but about two weeks ago, a hen appeared in one of the (fenced in) parking lots at the college campus, where I work. I've called in several people who own chickens, as well as some bird-rescue people (and even campus police), and none of us have been able to capture this little lady. I've been feeding her and visiting her regularly, but I sure would like to take her to a nice place where she can socialize a bit. Any suggestions on how to trap her? I've grown really attached to her, and I want to give her a good home!

 

[Lollipop]

Welllllllll, Ya can watch her til dark and catch her off the roost by shining a light in her eyes and grabbing her from behind. If she roosts too high, Kmart or one of the discount stores will have a fishing net with a long (48"0 or so) handle, that might make her easier to reach. Orrrr, you can make a little coral outta wire and SLOWLY herd her into it, then grab her with the net. That`s my best suggestions. Good luck........Pop

 

[Li]

Thanks, Pop! She actually roosts on the ground, which you would think would make it easy, but she's just so darn fast! I don't know about hanging around 'til dark, considering the campus police might think it suspicious. I've heard that bating her with melon into a dog carrier might work....does that sound crazy?!

 

[mrbstephens]

Yes, the fishing net trick is fantastic!

 

[greathorse]

Best thing is to get a big old fish net and sort of work her into a fenced corner. When she hauls butt to get away just lead her a bit with the net and she will jump right into it. How close can you get to her?

Roosting on the ground is going to get her eaten in pretty short order. The net is a life saver for me.

 

[Li]

Well, this is actually perfect, b/c she roosts in the corner of the fenced in lot, underneath some brush. Of course, she can probably get behind some of that brush that I can't fit under, but I should be able to corner her if I have someone on the other side of the fence giving her a bit of a scare.

...When I'm feeding her, I can get within about four feet of her. She's come to trust me, I think....

Also, we're in the middle of the city, so there's nothing really around to eat her. There ARE cats around, but she's bigger than most of them.... The only thing I worry about at this point is a wreckless college student zipping through the lot and running her over.....

 

[greathorse]

I dont know where you are but I would not bet against fox in the area. They do quite well in the city. Good luck with your catch. When working the net dont get in a hurry sort of let her come to it. Once she begins to run along the fence line she will likely run straight ahead they arent much for zigging and zagging. I have most of my misses if I get excited or rushed.

 

[Li]

Thanks, Greathorse! I will try to stay as calm as possible! I have a feeling it will take a couple of tries!

(PS: I'm in Charleston, SC, and -- while we do have fox on the peninsula -- this part of town is so congested, they tend to opt for the waterfront parks, where there's easy access to waterfowl, garbage and water!)

 

[sourland]

A box trap baited with grain would do the trick. You can probably borrow one from local animal control.

 

[Lollipop]

Slow is the way to procede. If you get her excited, don`t chase her, come back another day. Talk to the campus police and explain your intentions. They might even help........Pop