Single hen

[GilesC]

Hi

 

Today I was cleaning out my Eglu and I was finding a lot of very small and almost plastic like feathers from my new chickens quill.

What are they and what should we do?

 

Josh

 

Updated

 

 

Updated - these are the flecks of quill (we think) we are finding in the tray in reasonable quantity. They are about 2 - 10mm long and are waxy to the touch (just like the quill of the feathers) and hollow, like they were around something. They seem to be coming from around one of our youngest girls neck feathers. However, there is no sign of bare skin on her and she is in good health. Could they be pin feathers?

Edited February 22, 2009 by Guest

[Egluntyne]

Not sure what you meant tbh. Can you post a picture?

[Stevie]

Could your chooks be starting their annual moult?

[*mummy_hen*]

Mine are currently moulting which is normal for this time of year so it's probably very normal. I would keep an eye on her but not worry too much for now.

[Egluntyne]

Are you meaning the little casings which enclose the emerging feathers? They are nothing to worry about.