My parents have been taking care of my chickens since we moved to Salem. My mom is just as careful as I am about keeping them safe - locked up at night, checking on them several times a day.
Well this week they were out of town and I messed up. They have an automatic door and I set it to close 15 minutes earlier due to shorter days. Normally when they are in my backyard (or when my mom is home) they are checked on to make sure everyone is in.
Tonight I went over just after dark, because of daylight saving and when I opened the back door I could hear Buffy. That's not good I thought, that means they are locked out. I went to the barn, saw Buffy and Camilla outside (my favorites, yes, I have favorites). Inside I saw Bert and Mabel. I didn't think too much of it, quickly opened the door for them - they came running in. But Olive didn't come. I shined the light out into the run and saw her in a heap.
Shit.
I went outside and found her disemboweled. Most certainly a raccoon. I think she got locked out the night before and was killed, because she was fine yesterday afternoon.
I feel guilty. I am happy that Camilla and Buffy are okay, but I'm so anxious to get them moved out of there before it can come back.
Aaron was super nice and came over to take care of her body for me.
Ugh. I've seriously been so careful the last three years.
Rest in peace Olive. I'm sorry I let this happen :(
2 comments:
Oh Erin, so sorry to hear about Olive, knowing how much you cared for your chickens I'm sure it was difficult. Hopefully you will have them home soon.
Oh Erin I've been thinking about you all evening. I was at the grocery store when you texted me so I didn't get to respond properly. You take such good care of your girls and I know how hard it's been not having them there with you. I'm so sorry about Olive, and I hope you can get all of the moved over soon!
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