jenndarlene
In the Brooder
- Sep 22, 2020
- 2
- 20
- 26
Hello and thank you in advance for you help.
Our family is so devastated because we lost one of our beloved hens to a fox that gained entry to the coop (which now has been reinforced). We only had four, but they were truly sweet and surprisingly affectionate. We have a large fenced in backyard so they are very happy and free. They would always run up to us and "kneel" to be picked up and pet.
Now, after the attack they seem very different. The three that are left still come to us but keep a five foot distance and no longer want to be picked up and held.
Is this a permanent thing or do you think they will return to trusting us and show affection?
Our family is so devastated because we lost one of our beloved hens to a fox that gained entry to the coop (which now has been reinforced). We only had four, but they were truly sweet and surprisingly affectionate. We have a large fenced in backyard so they are very happy and free. They would always run up to us and "kneel" to be picked up and pet.
Now, after the attack they seem very different. The three that are left still come to us but keep a five foot distance and no longer want to be picked up and held.
Is this a permanent thing or do you think they will return to trusting us and show affection?
.Its very traumatic for them to see and experience predator attacks and it can take weeks even months to recover. Some will even stop laying. They will heal over time. Just spend a lot of time sitting with them, reassessing them it's ok. Bring treats with you to distract them. If they have any night terrors, I have found using a ticking clock in the coop soothes nerves. Good luck with your flock! 
