4m x 3m Omlet pen, cube, new auto door still boxed and coop light

[Cyber Chook]

Hi, I have some questions, hope someone can help.

 

Fifi Chickpea has developed a bald patch on her breast bone. I noticed it yesterday and I don't think it was there the day before. It's an inch or two in diameter, and isn't red or sore-looking. She isn't looking off colour, doesn't seem bothered by it, and the others arent' interested. She is laying fine.

 

I've had as good a look at it as I can, and can't see any critturs, but need her to stay more still . I'll get help today with holding her or wrapping her in an old towel so I can get a better look.

 

But can anyone advise? I looked on the Poultry Health area, which is excellent, but I'm not sure if Fifi is starting to moult - does that happen sometimes at this time of year ??

 

Can red mite start like this and then it starts to look sore?

 

I'll give them all a puff of Anti Louse Powder for good measure in the meantime. It's the natural one made, I think, with natural oils like Tea Tree and Lavender.

How often do you do this in general?

 

I cleaned out the run and Cube yesterday anyway, using Poultry Shield, and sprinkled Stalosan and Diatom everywhere, plus extra Diatom in the nesting box and dust bath.

 

I know I ought to, but I have to admit that I'm not good at checking them over regularly . They don't take kindly to being held, and as long as they're looking chirpy, eating well and laying, I tend to, well, 'forget'.

 

Caroline

 

I have moved this to the Chicken Clinic Caroline - Christian

[Egluntyne]

Is she sleeping on the roosting bars and rubbing the feathers away?

 

Are you using Hemcore? There have been reports on the forum of hens developing an allergy to it and developing bald patches.

[Cyber Chook]

Hi Egluntine

Yes, I do use Hemcore. In fact tomorrow I'm off to buy a new supply, so maybe that's something I need to consider.... hmmm....

 

Caroline

 

PS Have I posted this in the right place, do you think, or should I try to move it to the main forum?

[Egluntyne]

You wont be able to move it.

 

Wait for a mod to come along and they will sort it out for you.

 

Might be worth trying another bedding to see if it makes a difference.