Over the last decade, I have learned an incredible amount about owning livestock and poultry, and how they have their own personalities and traits. Surprisingly enough, I have bonded with many of my chickens, roosters and ducks, who have their own quirks and sweet ways, making them stand out from the rest.

 I’ve learned about what it is like to own these types of animals, and how to properly care for each of them, and I took a lot away from the experience. There has been an array of amazing memories, experiences, learning opportunities, growing and love shared with these animals, and sometimes difficult decisions must be made in the best interest of those pets.

Very recently, the decision was made to rehome all of our remaining chickens and ducks, as a local fox had continued to prey upon them, wiping out more than half of the flock in just a few months.

Prior to this decision, obstacles were put in place in an attempt to keep the fox from our birds, but we were unsuccessful.

Since I didn’t specialize in poultry, I started to do some research on how I could keep the birds safe. Various techniques were tried over a few months, such as music, humane traps, deterrent sprays, fencing and trail cameras. Even having the chickens and ducks located with the donkey didn’t scare off the fox. It could not be outsmarted!

It wasn’t easy letting the birds go, but knowing that the surviving flock and new chicks can live a longer life somewhere safe and still receive love and appropriate care, makes it feel that much better.

This is not the end of the road for us owning chickens and ducks, just a long break for now.

Cher and Pippy. Cher was rehomed but Pippy didn't get away. The two broodiest hens.

Pugsley boy. The most amazing rooster ever. ..He was taken by the fox, and after Pugsley, I decided to rehome everyone. He used to perch on my …

Biggie. Didn't make it. She hobbled around and loved snacks. ..

A very wet Snowflake. Has since passed.

Pugsley Jr. He was rehomed. He is son of Pugsley, and his mom was Pippy.

The ducks were all rehomed together, where they have a pond and 11 other duck friends.