Fox in the coop!!!

[GT27]

I literally went inside for maybe 20 minutes and my dog was inside too, she has chased it away a few times but the times it has gotten my chickens she’s been inside

 

[Lazy Farmer]

The only sure way to protect your flock is a secured covered run. If you insist on free ranging, perhaps a few strands of electric fence around your perimeter may help. Here is a great article on electric fencing: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/a-treatise-on-electric-fences-for-poultry.72229/

Even if you shoot this fox there will be more in the future, or maybe coyotes too. I HATE foxes - they are by far the worst predator in my area.

 

[HenniesInMyHeart]

Honestly? Shooting is the only surefire way I am afraid. I feel terrible saying that, but it knows where your birds are now and will do anything and everything to keep getting at them. Foxes are smart. If they are trapped in a live cage ONCE they remember forever and won't make the same mistake twice. They are very cunning, like the saying goes. You can keep trying with the live traps but they are unlikely to work on a seasoned fox. Poor thing but...you gotta protect your birds. That fox will wait and watch and attack when the perfect moment arises (you and dog inside). They will even attack during the day. I mean, the only more humane solution is seeing if animal control will dart it for you but that is very unlikely because it's risky and expensive for them...I am sorry, it's a dilemma and foxes are the WORST!

ETA: I just read you are worried it's a mama with kits. If you have a wildlife center near, call them and ask for advice? They may be able to send out trackers to look for the den. It all depends on where you live and what kind of resources/services are available in your area.

 

[GT27]

Agreed!! There’s a whole family. At least 3

 

[cresent moon poultry]

i have two foxs that i am sure of, one is a red fox and the other is a gray fox