Duck lost to Predator
We had our first loss to predators today. The flock numbered 22 when it went out this morning and 21 when it came back quacking early. Several feathers were rattled and tattered, so I knew something was wrong and went immediately to the pond shotgun in hand. There was nothing to be found but feathers and tracks. Either the coyotes or the neighbor’s dog has crossed the fence line. Oddly, we were more worried about hawks.
That fence line is a four board, great for keeping goats and sheep in but not all that great at keeping dogs or coyotes out. Our solution is to put goat wire on top of the boards. Unfortunately, that will take a bit of time. So the ducks are back in the backyard where the fence already has wire woven into it. They miss the pond, but it is for their own good.
After the predator attack
Above: Ducks in a watering trough. This is temporary only and will get back to normal as soon as we can get some predator protection around the pond. Poor ducks.
All things considered, I am taking this very well. We realize that free range, like mother nature itself, brings about losses. We understand the business of raising fowl involves acceptable losses. Better to have 21 happy ducks than 22 who live their lives in a cage. But we have decided a compromise should be reached. Of course that means a new project.
My tractor is supposed to be back from the shop this Wednesday. The plan is now not only to finish the pond before winter, but enclose the entire area with a combination of raised earth and stone walls, making something both protective and beautiful.
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