Fowl Play: The Rescue of a Domestic Chicken
On July 16th, 2024, I set out on my new E-Bike, eager to explore the trails nearby. Without my camera, I was ready to simply soak in the day’s beauty and escape into nature.
Around 3 p.m., while pedalling through the beautiful Hungry Hollow Trail System in Halton Hills, something unusual caught my eye. It wasn’t the typical wild creature or picturesque landscape I usually encounter—it was a domestic chicken, out of place and seemingly lost.
Hungry Hollow is a real gem. This 7 km trail winds through the lush ravine of Hungry Hollow along Silver Creek. It’s a place where native forests meet beautiful wetlands, complete with boardwalks and bridges. Perfect for hiking, biking, or running, it’s open year-round.The trail is rich with plant and bird species, and the educational signage highlights the area’s biodiversity. Although this is a great biodiverse area, it is not a suitable habitat for a domestic chicken.
Even though I didn’t have my camera, I always keep an eye out for interesting sights. But a chicken? That was definitely unexpected.
In Halton Hills, backyard chickens are relatively new. The town’s initiative allows residents to keep up to three hens, promoting sustainable living and urban agriculture. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh eggs and connect with animals. However, the chicken I spotted clearly wasn’t meant to be wandering the trails—it had escaped from somewhere.
Having worked as an Animal Protection Officer & Investigator, I knew this chicken’s situation was precarious. Without its coop, it was vulnerable and unlikely to survive on its own.
I tried to catch the chicken myself, but it was elusive and quick. Despite my experience with wild animals, this escape artist proved too tricky.
So, I reached out to Omega K9 Control, and Rob from their team responded. He assured me he’d be there soon, so I kept a watchful eye on our feathery friend until Rob arrived.
When Rob got there, we worked as a team to capture the chicken. I headed into the brush to flush it toward Rob, who was ready with a large net. In no time, Rob and I had the chicken safely secured. We moved it into a cage and then into Rob’s vehicle, ensuring the chicken was safe and sound.
I thanked Rob on the spot, but if he’s reading this, a huge thank you again for your help. It’s reassuring to know that, even in unexpected situations, there are people who can step in and make a difference.
Reflecting on this little adventure, moments like these remind me of the joy in blending my love for nature with my background in animal protection. Sometimes, helping an animal in need brings a different kind of satisfaction.
For all you bird enthusiasts in Ontario, a quick word of caution: the Atlantic Flyway, which includes our region, has seen cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1. To help prevent the spread, avoid handling wild birds and ensure your domestic flocks are well protected. Keeping vigilant helps safeguard both avian and human health.
For more information on Avian Influenza, check out the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s website:
Canadian Food Inspection Agency - Avian Influenza
Until the next post!
-Greg
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