Fox Attack, lone survivor

[rachd1987]

Looking for some urgent advice please. Absolutely devastated that 2 out of my 3 ducks have been killed by what appears to be a fox. Rosie was already sleeping when I went to them this morning, and Jasper was too poorly to be saved and the vet put her to sleep. Lily has a small injury but was given pain relief and antibiotics, I've made her a little pen in my spare room and she's eaten and drank so I'm hopeful she will pull through if the stress hasn't been too much for her.

My question is, she will obviously need new friends, at what point would be best to get her some? I don't want her to be feeling lonely as she's trying to get better but I obviously don't want it to stress her further by introducing her to new ducks. Also, would getting younger ducks be a good idea or would it be better if they were the same age? Thanks in advance. Please be kind ❤

 

[chickens really]

It doesn't matter really. Older Ones will be easier..
I hate Fox..Sorry that happened.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Around same age might be best and you could always set up a second area in your spare bedroom where Rosie can see the new ducks but they are separated so she can rest and heal but they can all still get to know each other? If you go with ducklings it would be same way it just may take a little longer. so sorry for your losses, where they inside when this happened?

 

[rachd1987]

Thank you for your replies. Would it be better to wait a few days until she's stronger or is it a case of the sooner the better?

They were outside in their pen, it's been unseasonably hot here recently so I left them out of their house (which I've done before when it's been this warm), we live in an urban area, they are backyard pets, so we honestly never imagined there could be such a threat. Their pen is covered anyway, but the fox had managed to worm it's way in. I feel so responsible, it was my job to protect them

 

[Miss Lydia]

You can be looking for now as long as she isn't put in a position to mate or defend her self with pushing and shoving it would be alright to introduce her to new family. Actually this might be better since she will be in her on area. But it's up to you always, if you feel it would be better to wait than by all mean do that.. Just introduce by letting everyone see each other but not mingle for a few days till they all get accustomed to each other. less stress all round.

And listen please don't beat yourself up things happen and we have to go on, learn by them and admit we made a mistake you have done that now reinforce your pen while she is recouping inside so you don't ever have to go through this heart break again. Hardware cloth is about the only thing to keep predators out top bottom and sides. They are relentless in the quest to have a good free meal.