parsnipbun
Wise Old Thumper
Just to remind everyone that in late September/October fox families start to break up with the males and females dispersing and trying to carve out new territories for themselves. During this time areas which have been 'fox free' may suddenly find themselves with random foxes or some areas have two or more competing foxes. They will also be hungry as they compete.
Be aware that this is a danger time for your buns.
So a few hints:
Check all your bolts, hinges, nails, etc are all still firm after the long summer and no corners have been nibbled thin or runs undermined by tunelling buns.
Check any foxwatches (sonic deterrents) have new batteries and are fully working (after a year or so many need new switches or the lenses cleaned - send them back to the manufacturer for servicing);
Think about fitting other deterrents if possible (electric fences etc)
Consider using some of the scented spray which mimics fox urine to put off any new foxes thinking of moving in to vacant territory (male urine really doesn't work as well if the fox is used to humans)
Don't let the earlier nights catch you out and ensure buns are in bed promptly - but don't forget dispersing foxes may also follow different patterns and be around in the day
If you can - move hutches inside of enclosed aviary 'runs' or sheds so there are two levels of protection between the fox and your rabbits.
Beating the fox relies on being constantly alert and upgrading, renewing and 'servicing' your foxproofing!! And don't forget: A bolt is only as good as the person who is shutting it every night!!!
Be aware that this is a danger time for your buns.
So a few hints:
Check all your bolts, hinges, nails, etc are all still firm after the long summer and no corners have been nibbled thin or runs undermined by tunelling buns.
Check any foxwatches (sonic deterrents) have new batteries and are fully working (after a year or so many need new switches or the lenses cleaned - send them back to the manufacturer for servicing);
Think about fitting other deterrents if possible (electric fences etc)
Consider using some of the scented spray which mimics fox urine to put off any new foxes thinking of moving in to vacant territory (male urine really doesn't work as well if the fox is used to humans)
Don't let the earlier nights catch you out and ensure buns are in bed promptly - but don't forget dispersing foxes may also follow different patterns and be around in the day
If you can - move hutches inside of enclosed aviary 'runs' or sheds so there are two levels of protection between the fox and your rabbits.
Beating the fox relies on being constantly alert and upgrading, renewing and 'servicing' your foxproofing!! And don't forget: A bolt is only as good as the person who is shutting it every night!!!