If the run around is COMPLETELY predator proof then yes, you can leave it open. However, I have never heard of anyone who has a completely fox proof rat proof stoat proof run. It would have to be like Fort Knox. Bear in mind, a predator has all night to find a way to get into the run and it happens ...

Reading your post again, you seem to have been giving her food to keep her protein up. I would think that would just support the egg laying and I personally would be lowering her protein so that perhaps her body just will produce far fewer eggs. Just a thought. Also, if you could artificially reduce...

Hi Carol My vet told me about a hormone injection that can be given to a hen that stops her laying. Failing that or if it is something you don't want to do, I would put her on a low protein diet as maybe that will help to stop her laying naturally? I know of one hen that was given an injection or im...

Same as Manda. And, its your money that you are paying after all so if at all unsure ask for a second opinion from the chicken vet.

I get the proper brand red top but split the powder into three and empty and refill my tops. I know that's gross but it saves a ton and I dontwant a device that catches wasps etc accidentally

Righto. No flaming please just a sensible discussion.... I think everyone here knows how well I look after my hens! :) I have a feather picker who is gradually making my whole flock bald. Huge bare patches and sore skin appearing on them all. She is a feather picking demon. She is the only hen who d...

Personally if she were mine I would not take her anywhere but would not have her outside, she would be in the house with a hot water bottle and somewhere dark and quiet to give her a full chance to recover.

Just wondered, what sort of antibiotics is she on please?

Galvanised weld mesh from hills of devon, mine is half inch by half inch

That is very true Richard poison needs to be respected and treated with great care
Also yes much easier to do sonething about foxes, they are so much more visible than rats too

I must say I always have traps around and dont hesitate to use bait stations if I see them. It would probably be different if I lived in the country with loads of fields but they are such a danger and the wee is invisible and often carries deadly diseases. I actually like rats a lotand have had lots...

Just poison them hun it works quickly once they take the bait x

No it wont hurt them

Dont worry. I know how horrifying it is to have rats believe me! Get some wheat based poison and bait stations, handle it all with disposable pkastic gloves so it doesnt smell of people (or use a plastic bag). I use proctor pest stop wheat poison as it has both kinds of poison and works fast. You ar...

If you are not sure, take her to the vet asap as Manda says, could be a wide number of things but its not good. Also the beak injury may need looking at. Beak injuries can be very painful indeed to the hen depending on the injury of course