Best liner/ bedding for drop tray

[Jane and Martin]

We had a horrible time at 3am Tue morning. We were woken to a lot of noise and sqwarking outside. A fox (the first in 5yrs) got into the run and killed 2 of our 3 bluebelles. Our legbar who has maintained flying skills over the years managed to fly over the fencing and hide and I think we got there in time to stop fox getting bluebell no 3. I am very upset by it and feel very guilty. Bluebell no 3 is doing normal chicken stuff but the Lgbar has gone from being a very active, flighty hen to a very dissinterestd subdued bird. She barely ate anything this morning and is just hunched in the run. I can't find any physical damage on her so I think she did avoid the fox. Any ideas or expreience of how to help her back to normal would be appreciated. She is getting on a bit (4) but was laying well and appeared very healthy until this happened.

[chicken bark]

That is really terrible. Is there a chance your Legbar has bruised herself in someway in her efforts to fly away?

 

I hope things improve as you all get over the shock.

It'll be extra bolts and braces security now the fox knows you are there.

 

Really sorry.

[Jane and Martin]

It did cross my mind that maybe she had injured herself. Fences all reinforced and extra electric fencing in place - tested by OH and definitely working Just hope Mr /Mrs Fox tests it and keeps away.

Thanks

[Carol U]

So sorry to hear of your fox attack - it's something we all dread. If your legbar is not injured in any way, I would think she is just traumatised and needs to be kept quiet and warm for a few days. If it only happened yesterday, it's a bit soon to expect her to be back to normal. My legbars, while delightful, are quite nervous birds and easily spooked. I think it is a trait of the breed. Apple cider vinegar in the water - about 1 tsp per litre - sometimes helps birds to recover their appetites. I'm sure she'll settle down again soon.

[Ain't Nobody Here]

How awful, I'm so sorry . I hope your affected girl recovers soon .

[Seagazer]

I'm sorry to hear your sad news and I hope that the legbar recovers, she could still be in shock.

[Christian]

Sorry to hear you lost 2 hens to a fox

 

Have you got any rescue remedy? It is good for most animals suffering from shock. Boots sell it and Holland and Barratt. Made by Bach's Flower remedies.

[Jane and Martin]

Thanks to everyone. She is still understandardly subdued. she was a bit more willing to eat this morning but went back into the cube afterwards. Have been making her porridge which she is eating a bit of. Will try the rescue remedy.