Pro - Does anyone else's nest boxes get soaked in rain?

[dixie chick]

Not sure if my Speckled Sussex has a problem or not. Have only had her a week and she is about 15 weeks old - she seems to be one of the smaller ones of my mixed flock of seven - even though they are all of similar ages. She seems to be pecked by the others quite a bit and tonight I thought her bottom looked a bit pink around the stubbly bits of feathers. I sprayed on some gentian violet and also some anti-peck spray, and while I was holding her I felt a big swelling on one side of her breast - golf ball size but softish. I am now really worried about her - although I have to say she eating and scratching around happily with the others - she doesn't even seem that bothered about the bullying ....Any ideas anyone?

[abwsco]

I think you'll find it's her crop so nothing to worry about Probably an idea to check first thing in the morning though to see if it's smaller in size to put your mind at rest.

[dixie chick]

Thank you so much for that reassuring advice - I didn't realise the crop was in that area. This forum is SO helpful - I don't know what I would do without you all!

[abwsco]

The preening gland might be another one that panics you. That's located on their back near the tail feathers and looks a bit like an abcess! Welcome to the world of panic that is part of chicken keeping