4m x 3m Omlet pen, cube, new auto door still boxed and coop light

[Chooks]

We've just got a new chicken (after Mr. Fox ran off with our little red hen). Have just noticed that one of her eyes is in a poorly state (looks a bit like conjunctivitus). I'm not sure if she had this when we got her or if it has been caused by a peck from our black chicken - who didn't take too kindly to her to start off with, although they seem to be friends now.

 

Does anyone know what it could be and how to treat it? or do we need to take her to the vets?

 

Also, have been visited by Mr. Fox every day since Thursday (when little red hen was snatched). He always seems to appear about 8 a.m. and then disappears for the rest of the day. Is he likely to return at any time during the day or do foxes have set routes to mark their territory. We're torn between letting our girls free range and keeping them safe but caged. Any thoughts greatly appreciated.

[chelsea]

We've had a couple of minor eye problems here which we have treated with bathing with either cold tea or weak salt water solution/cotton wool. Both have recovered fine after this.

 

If there is cause for concern, pop down to the vet.

[sandyhas3chucks]

MY advice would be to read all the post with FOX in them.

I am very neurotic about my girls as I know we have foxes, though not "seen" since had girls I am under no safety illusions. I only let mine free range under supervision. but you will have to decide how much space they have in their run, versus free ranging and the risk, but I weould rate your risk really high,.

So sorry if this sound negative but after you read the posts you will understand why.

Electric fencing perhaps?

[Egluntyne]

We've had a couple of minor eye problems here which we have treated with bathing with either cold tea or weak salt water solution/cotton wool. Both have recovered fine after this.

 

If there is cause for concern, pop down to the vet.

 

Ditto to the above.

[Chooks]

Thanks all. Will look at all things foxy. I think we need a bigger run and supervised 'freedom'. As suggested we've bathed poorly eye with cold tea and it now looks a little better.