Foxes and Chickens: A Close Call in the Garden

Life on a hobby farm is usually filled with peaceful routines—feeding animals, tending gardens, and soaking in the calm of the land. But every now and then, nature reminds us just how quickly things can turn dangerous. Today was one of those days.

I was near the garden working on the chicken coop when I heard a sudden commotion in the garden. The kind of noise that makes your heart stop for a moment. I ran toward the noise, and what I saw froze me: my young Brahma rooster, Todd, was clamped in the jaws of a fox.

Before I could even process what was happening, my main rooster, Travis, launched himself at the fox. Wings flapping, spurs slashing, and beak striking, Travis was relentless. He kicked, attacked, and fought with everything he had. I’ve always thought of him as the boss of the flock, but I didn’t realize the depth of his courage until today. I never expected him to risk his life for Todd—especially since I wasn’t even sure he liked him all that much.

I sprinted toward them, yelling, and just as I reached the scene, the fox spotted me. With a flash of movement, it dropped Todd and bolted into the woods behind the garden. Everything happened so fast—in broad daylight, no less.

I scooped Todd up immediately. His little body trembled in my arms as I checked him over. Miraculously, he had survived with only a few puncture wounds and a cut toe. I treated his injuries and held him close, feeding him some of his favorite treats. Watching him nibble from my hand felt like the sweetest relief.

But what struck me most was Travis. He had stood his ground against a predator that could have easily killed him. His bravery bought Todd the precious seconds he needed to survive. In that moment, Travis proved that flock bonds run deeper than I realized. He was willing to risk it all—not just to defend the hens, but to protect Todd, too.

A Reminder About Foxes

Foxes are clever, fast, and opportunistic. They don’t just hunt at night—today was proof they’ll attack in the middle of the day if given the chance. They move silently until the chaos erupts, and by then, it can feel like it’s already too late.

If you keep chickens, vigilance is key. Secure coops, fenced runs, and even supervision during free-range time are essential. Foxes won’t hesitate to take advantage of the smallest opening, and they are far bolder than we sometimes imagine.

Gratitude After the Storm

Today could have ended in heartbreak, but instead, it left me with gratitude. I’m thankful Todd is alive, that I got there in time, and that I witnessed the fierce courage of Travis. He reminded me that bravery can come from the most unexpected places.

On a farm, every day brings lessons—sometimes about patience, sometimes about resilience, and sometimes about the wild strength of loyalty. Today, the lesson was clear: never underestimate a rooster’s heart.

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