Owl Attack

[Martington Bear]

We are in the process of building a bigger coop for our flock. Meanwhile, we have the birds divided into three groups - two groups housed in our pole barn in their own enclosures and the third outside in front of our house in a very secure steel 10x10 kennel completely enclosed on top. Pretty secure, or so we thought.

About a half hour ago, we heard a commotion which set off our dogs. Retrieved the flashlight and lit up the area of the kennel, and was very surprised to see a huge barred owl holding on to the side of the kennel. At first we thought it was just trying to get at the flock, but then noticed that it had hold of one of our black jersey giants by the head. It took off as we came out.

The hen survived, but has some lacerations on the head. Her eye on the left side is closed and bloody, but doesn't seem to be missing. We immediately removed her to a chick coop we have that is not being used and set her up in the pole barn near the other two groups of birds.

From what I have read, our treatment plan is going to be clean the wounds with hydrogen peroxide, then neosporin and finally after healing, some Blu Kote.

Should we do anything else? What about her eye?

Thanks for any advice or experiences.

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

Treat for shock with sugar water and electrolytes

 

[centrarchid]

Keep isolated for a couple of days to assess for visual impairment. Damage internally with owl bites to back of head also damage inner ear frequently. Killing action is by means of rapid and powerful bites to back of head and upper neck.