Wiggle39 Posted August 30, 2011 Share Posted August 30, 2011 Hello again. I have a problem with one of my hens, she has begun a tail moult and one of the pin feathers has not pearced the skin. It has formed a 1 cm long protrusion which is long and thin, (exactly as if the feather can't find a way out). I was wondering if anyone else has seen this problem before and what I can do to help. I've left it for 2 days to see if it will break through on it's own but I'm not too keen on leaving it any longer as it must be uncomfortable for her. I don't have a particularly poultry friendly vet near me. Any help with this would be great. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chickvic Posted August 30, 2011 Share Posted August 30, 2011 It sounds like it might be the preen gland. This is situated at the base of the tail feathers. http://www.chickeneggspert.com/chicken-behavior/feather-preening/34.asp this site has a pic. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wiggle39 Posted August 30, 2011 Author Share Posted August 30, 2011 Thank you chickvic. That'll be it! Is there anything else hiding under the little madam's feathers that I should be aware of. I obviously check for nasty parasites around the vent and under the ladies wings but I don't check anywhere else. Thank you for your help, you've saved me a totally unnecessary trip to the vets. Kind regards Wiggle39 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Plum Posted August 31, 2011 Share Posted August 31, 2011 Have you found the crop that fools a few of us Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
