Chuck saved from Mr Fox - now what do I do?

[lynnep1]

I have just been woken by a huge uproar in the hen house. I ran downstairs to see Mr Fox escaping with Nigella, but he dropped her as he went over the fence. Fearing the worst I got OH to fetch her from behind the compost bin, and she's still ALIVE!

There seem to be no sign of blood or other injuries, but she's clearly very shocked. Is there anything I should or shouldn't do to help her now? Also three of my other girls - Delia, Clarissa and Edwina - are currently standing by the back door and will not go back to the hen house.

Many thanks
Lynne

 

[Eastins Eggs]

Keep her warm and dry. The other chickens may not go back in the coop due to the darkness. Chickens are for all intensive purposes night blind. You may have to put them back inside your self since they will probably stay where they are until day light if left alone.

 

[lynnep1]

Thank you. She's currently standing by my back door and beginning to preen herself a little. Should I bring her inside or is it better to leave her with her friends.
It's now daylight here (6am) so should I carry on with their normal daily routine? Also should I clean out the henhouse to remove any smell of fox?
Sorry for all the questions but this has never happened to me before and I'm not sure how to deal with it.

Lynne

 

[redtailross]

keep her room temp/ warm in a darkened kennel/ box, with a towel over it (to keep it dark), she should calm down once she knows she is safe. leave her some water. She needs peace and quiet.
Keep an eye on her to perk up...you might want to check under her wings for any puncture wounds...
other wise not much you can do but wait i think.

Im no vet but thats what I would do...


Hot cup of tea with lots of sugar...hold on that's for people when they'er in shock...

Good Luck!