predator attack!

[Capt. Crusoe]

Infection is what you want to prevent. You really need to clean the scratch and or puncture wound with soap and water. You'll need help so get a family member or friend to help hold her while checking her over and cleaning the scratches, wounds or cuts. It may start bleeding again but that will be a good thing. Now dry her really well and put “Neosporin” or “3 in 1 ointment” (both are a topical ointment) on the abrasions. Keep her warm dry and calm at least over the next 24 hours for a minimum. Good luck and keep us posted. One more thing – now that the raccoon has the taste of your chickens, be sure and eliminate the possibility of it coming back and finishing the job. Remember – relocation of the raccoon only gives someone else the problem.

 

[coachhaze60]

Exactly, I would prescribe a healthy dose of 22 for the raccoon problem. I am surprised the raccoon didn't kill the pullet right on the spot. With my experiences in fending them off they normally kill the chicken at that moment and throw the head away.

Good hunting for the bandit critter.

 

[Kesta]

she had a wound on her neck as i just discovered. we put some all natural cleaning oil for wounds on it. and i cant hunt the racoon. hello im in houston texas!i have to have a permit, and im not 18 so i dont even own a gun.

 

[Attack Chicken]

Trap it

 

[Capt. Crusoe]

Quote:
I feel every fowl owner should have at least a couple of live-traps just for cases such as this. I personally own three different sizes and a total of five traps - but I have to admit - I live in a rural area on the Northern Boarder of Illinois. I keep the traps set and check them every time I check on the birds. There are many nocturnal predators and maybe some daytime predators with insomnia out for a late night snack. Poultry in general have very poor night vision. Making them susceptible to attack. Raccoon, Mink, Weasel, Rats, Cats, Snakes and a host of other predators have a great sense of smell along with fantastic night vision and lightning fast strike ability. A live trap will not guarantee or prevent all attacks but will definitely help. A baited trap with a free meal is very enticing to a predator.

Good luck with your feathered friends and very glad you came to BYC forum for advice - though it sounds like you have everything under control. Wishing you a safe and prosperous day.
Here is one of two weasels I caught within the last month - I know they do not look like much in size - but they have lightning fast reflexes, razor sharp teeth and go for the throat of fowl.