I'm so bumbed!

[freethought]

I have been living in Maine the last two or so years. It's a great place to live. Not so great if you're single. The social life is a little lacking. I like it none the less.

Anyway, there is a fox that trots through the yard every day about 6:30pm. I am usually at the window about that time to watch it pass through. The fox had been looking a little thin. Then one day, about 2 weeks ago it came through the yard limping severely. I was able to get a good look at it one day and it appears as if the fox has lost, or at least badly injured, an eye.

Against better judgment I have left some scraps out for it. Usually chicken. I know I probably shouldn't but it breaks me to see the condition of this animal. I'm hoping to see some improvement soon but if I don't I have no doubt that the fox will not survive the winter. Maine had some days last winter well into below zero territory.

I don't believe the fox is a victim of a trap of hunter. It looks more as if it may have had a fight with something larger and more powerful. Maybe a dog.

Anyway, I just had to vent a little.

[bigwillq]

1. That's too bad about the fox

But that's also pretty cool that foxes come round your way.

I think it's very kind of you to help the fox out.

[freethought]

2. Yeah, but sometimes kindness can be curse too

I'm only expressing concern that feeding the animal could make it a high-risk nuisance to someone else. Kind of like a bear that has been fed too much at a national park. Although I haven't seen any sign on that, there may be someone who may try to eliminate the problem quickly with a gun.

[bigwillq]

3. That's true

But I would keep feeding it secretly and watch the progress.

Aren't there are wildlife places you can call and see what they could do about it?

[freethought]

4. There are, but again

there are some things I don't know. I don't know the sex of the animal. If I had to guess I would call it a female. Given that, there is a chance that there is a den somewhere with cubs in it. To get it to wildlife rehab may require capturing it and keeping it away from its den for weeks. The cubs would either starve or be prey themselves.

Also, this animal is not stupid. Trapping it could be quite the feat.
Hmm, maybe at least a phone call for some info or instructions wouldn't hurt. Damn! It's what you just asked. What an idiot I am!

[bigwillq]

5. The call is worth a shot (nt)